JP
The Helio Ocean is well covered on SlashGear, so everyone should be familiar with its features as well as what it’s capable of. In case you need to get up to speed, take a look at this page then you can come back to this article and understand why I’m so excited about the Ocean.
As you already know, the Ocean arrived this morning and I’ve spent the last eight or more hours diving into this beast. The most important point I want to get across to anyone looking to purchase the Ocean is this: keep your expectations in check. It’s a well-featured device (don’t just call it a “phone”), however Helio never intended the Ocean to act as a smartphone in the traditional sense – future versions of the Ocean, perhaps, just not this one. Okay, that being said lets delve first into the “personal entertainment center”, or media player. It supports MP3, AAC, WMA, MPEG-4, H.264, VOD and MOD files formats. While in video mode, flipping from portrait mode to landscape mode is as easy as clicking the down button on the D-Pad or you can simply flip up the Ocean’s screen. Since the Ocean isn’t a smartphone, it doesn’t handle multi-tasking; you can’t use any other applications such as IMing while listening to music or watching a video. The software does allow you to surf or buy music from Helio Music store, though. While you enjoy your tunes, you’ll still be notified when someone send you an instant message.
Ocean’s integrated messaging dashboard includes out-of-the-box built-in access to AOL email and AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo! Email and Yahoo Messenger, Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Mail, Hotmail, Gmail, Earthlink email and Helio Mail. Whew, that was a mouthful and I’m not even done with the list yet. In addition, Ocean also supports personal and business email accounts, although right now direct push email, calendar and contacts synchronization from an Exchange Server isn’t available. Helio informed me that it’s still being heavily tested and should be available in the upcoming months with no specific time frame. I discovered two features that
I really don’t like: not being able to turn off the audio notification for all incoming and outgoing messages without having to put the entire device in silent mode. Better yet, while in silent mode, it vibrates on all outgoing and incoming instant messages; trust me, this gets really annoying after a few minutes. This has been reported to Helio and I’m hoping there’ll be a fix for it shortly. The second annoyance is not being able to hide offline contacts in AIM. The feature is available for Yahoo! IM, so I just don’t understand why Helio didn’t include it in AIM. Helio added a nice touch by visually notifying of incoming messages while in the home screen, at which point you can choose to either ignore or view the messages. Also, while in other applications, there’s a message icon on the top right hand side to the left of the clock notifying you that you still have unread messages. To answer the several people who’ve asked, yes, IM does allow you to sign in as invisible. Ocean will allow you to send images from your album or newly taken photos to friends via instant messenger. In my tests, however, the images were apparently too big to go through, and even after sizing down the image the transmission failed again for some unknown reason. If you get this feature to work, make sure to drop me a comment.
It’s important to note that the Ocean’s contact list seamlessly syncs with Yahoo!, AOL and Helio Mail address books, allowing you to quickly find your friends, family and coworkers. You can either pull up a contact through Helio’s UI or just type a name from the Ocean’s idle screen and Smart Dialer searches the handset’s address book and pulls up full contact information, complete with icons to show if a person is online whether they’re using Yahoo!, AIM or Windows Live IM. The integrated search is a cool feature, eliminating a dedicated, space-consuming search box. Ocean will even initiate a web search, simultaneously querying multiple search engines including Yahoo, Google, Amazon and Wikipedia, all of which present their results in individual browser tabs.
Ocean sports a 2.4-inch, 260K color high-resolution QVGA display, two external speakers residing on the back of the device and support for various Bluetooth protocols such as A2DP. I didn’t having any problems pairing the Ocean up with the Plantronics 665 and Gennum nX6000 Bluetooth headsets. However, the Plantronics 260 Stereo Bluetooth headset managed to pair up but was unable to connect to the Ocean. Luckily I had the Etymotic ety8 Bluetooth Stereo Headset to test – and yes, they mated well. I bought a couple tracks from the Helio Store and downloads were relatively fast, considering Helio is using Sprint’s EV-DO network. I also bought and played a couple of games, all of which were entertaining. Ocean does not allow you to save downloaded video or music files to external media directly. You have to download them to the internal memory then manually move them over to the microSD card. It’s the same with emails; the Ocean doesn’t allow you to save emails to external storage.
I’m not a big fan of MySpace, so I didn’t even bother with it. If you’ve tested this feature, make sure to add your experience to the comment area. One of my favorite features of the Ocean (of all Helio devices for that matter) is the built-in GPS for Google Maps for Mobile and Buddy Beacon. Google Maps works as expected and comes with all the usual Google Map goodies. There isn’t much to add other than the built-in GPS, which provides your approximate location. For a run-down on Buddy Beacon you can check out my review of the Helio Drift, as the two systems are the same.
Ocean doesn’t allow editing of Microsoft Office documents. You can only view them as text files. If you’re crossing over from a Treo, Windows Mobile or Pocket PC Phone, don’t expect too much from the formatting, because it’s not pretty. I suspect that Helio will introduce new software that will at least allow documents to display properly.
Ocean is the first device that Helio designed from the inside out. It sports one of the first dual slider form factor featuring both an alphanumeric keypad and full QWERTY keypad available. I found the keyboard easy to use, but it inevitably required some retraining from years of using a tiny keyboard on the Treo and Blackberry devices. I don’t like how the space key is only slightly longer than the other keys, and I found myself mistakenly hitting the backspace key instead of the enter key quite often. Other than that, the keyboard is easy to use and very comfortably spaced out for typing with your thumbs.
The keyboard’s upper set of keys on the Ocean is too close together and cramped but you’ll find a way to get use to it. As far a comparing the Sidekick 3’s keyboard to the Ocean, I have to say I like the Sidekick 3 more. Again, this is a matter of preference, and I also like the cramped layout of the Treo 755p’s keyboard so don’t take my word for it! You need to test the Ocean out for yourself to see what’s best for you.
Ocean vs. Sidekick3’s keyboard layout:
Physically turning the Ocean horizontally and flipping it up will automatically change the screen orientation, and vice versa. This feature already exists in other devices such as the HTC 8525, so nothing new here. But what’s really cool is that if for some reason you answer a call while in horizontal landscape mode and you’re not using your headset, the call automatically is placed in speakerphone made. If you slide the keyboard closed, the call will continue and the speakerphone is automatically turned off. Unfortunately, Ocean doesn’t allow you to do anything else while using the phone; incoming instant messages, for instance, don’t get delivered until after the call ends.
Voice calls, whether you’re using the mic or speakerphone, were clear and crisp. Helio makes it very easy to add numbers to existing contacts or simply create a new contact based on a phone number in your recent call list.
Helio is actively working on a solution for Mac owners. As of now, there’s no easy way to sync the Ocean with OS X.
What’s in store for the Ocean in the near future? Expect more downloadable apps, MySpace v2 (coming early next week), Helio UP is being enhanced for integration with more services that will take advantage of GPS coordinate tagging of your pictures (that’s all I know for now so stay tuned for more info). According to Helio, Ocean is a platform upon which Helio will keep innovating and delivering firsts. So it looks like the Ocean is a sure bet and won’t be obsolete in the near future if you’re flirting with the idea of getting one.
Would I recommend the Ocean? The short answer is a definite yes, with the understanding that what you’re looking for is a well-featured device and not a smartphone. It’s still too early for me to rate the Ocean, since I’ve had just 12 hours of usage on it, but you can be sure that SlashGear will bring you a follow-up report very soon!
The Ocean costs $295. Plans with unlimited data access starts from $65 to $135 per month, depending on the number of voice minutes. If you want an all-you-can-eat plan for data and minutes, be ready to shell out $145 a month.
UPDATE 5/10/2007:
Ocean CAN multi-task, but does only for specific apps. The IMS client is always running in the background. You can surf the web while listening to music. Etc. It’s just that Ocean was designed to multi-task around specific use cases. Remember, it’s not a smartphone (but it’s starting to blur the lines between a featurephone and a smartphone).
I stated the following in the review:
“Ocean will allow you to send images from your album or newly taken photos to friends via instant messenger. In my tests, however, the images were apparently too big to go through, and even after sizing down the image the transmission failed again for some unknown reason.”
It’s important to note that I got Ocean as a pre-release, before market availability. Helio’s IMS servers are still undergoing preparations for production. This stuff is to be expected and that particular function may not yet be enabled.
Relate article: Make your own Helio Ocean ringtones
Walkthrough video of the Helio Ocean:
http://www.slashgear.com/media/helio_device_walkthrough.flvHelio versus Sidekick3, HTC 8525 and Treo 755p:
http://www.slashgear.com/media/helio_ocean_compared.flvSample video taken with Ocean’s 2.0 megapixel video camcorder:
Sample pictures taken with Ocean’s 2.0 megapixel camera:
182 Responses to “Helio Ocean hands-on review”
Chris May 10, 2007
Awesome, I can’t wait to get mine in!
+7Mo May 10, 2007
nice review bro!
+3Vincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
forgot to mention that NO you cannot use MP3 as ringtones. This was never available from Helio and I don’t anticipate it to be available in the near or distant future.
+3Mo May 10, 2007
I just don’t understand how they couldnt just allow you to Hide your offline contacts, or allow us to make our mp3’s our ringtones, almost a scheme to make us buy from their “store” for ringtones
+5Chris May 10, 2007
Can you use M4A/AAC files as ringtones?
As far as the offline contacts in AIM – not sure what you mean? In the screen shot it shows a category for offline contacts. If you drop into any other category does it show offline contacts there as well?
For the vibrate issue, has anyone at Helio gotten back to you? I can’t believe a bug like that could pass through…Changing the alert volume (page 48-49 in the manual) doesn’t affect new message notifications?
NeutralChris Davies May 10, 2007
I am SO jealous right now.
+7draco8988 May 10, 2007
So what happens to instant messages when your out of reception or in a roaming area since you don’t get data in roaming do you receive it once your in a regular coverage area or is that instant message gone? Dose eveything closes down when you slide the device down or dose it give you the option to switch from number pad to landscape mode with out shuting down your current app or text message?
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
Can you use M4A/AAC files as ringtones?
[NO - nada!]
As far as the offline contacts in AIM – not sure what you mean? In the screen shot it shows a category for offline contacts. If you drop into any other category does it show offline contacts there as well?
[I manually closed the categories]
For the vibrate issue, has anyone at Helio gotten back to you? I can’t believe a bug like that could pass through…Changing the alert volume (page 48-49 in the manual) doesn’t affect new message notifications?
[Helio confirmed this tonight - you have to set silent mode, but doing that will cause the device to vibrate on incoming and outgoing messages]
+1Chris May 10, 2007
So it won’t let you load any ringtones on the device?
What I meant is – on the other categories, do they show offline contacts inline with online contacts? Or are all of the offline contacts grouped in “offline contacts”
That sucks about the vibrate – was there an indication that this is a bug and will be addressed or is it intended behavior?
Thanks a million for the review and answering the questions!!!
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
[quote comment="21880"]So it won’t let you load any ringtones on the device?
What I meant is – on the other categories, do they show offline contacts inline with online contacts? Or are all of the offline contacts grouped in “offline contacts”
That sucks about the vibrate – was there an indication that this is a bug and will be addressed or is it intended behavior?
Thanks a million for the review and answering the questions!!![/quote]
No self-made ringtones can be loaded – period. I’m too tired right now, will address all the questions tomorrow. Right now, I just wanna tuck the Ocean somewhere for a few days before playing with it again :).
Please keep the questions and concerns coming, I’ll do my best to address all of them.
+1Cameron May 10, 2007
Is Google Talk included in the list of Instant Messagers available on the Helio Ocean? I’m also shocked that you’re unable to make your own ringtones. How open is the Helio platform? Any chances that there’ll be hacks to allow people to play their own tones?
Looking forward to reading more!
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
Google Talk is not available at first launch but according to Helio, their working on something. That’s as far as I know.
+2Daniel Christen May 10, 2007
When and where will the device be release???
+1Can’t wait!
Chris May 10, 2007
Helio allows you to load custom ringtones on every other phone: http://www.helio.com/page?p=su.....ads_pcsync
Should be something similar for the ocean.
NeutralMo May 10, 2007
Chris that page you just linked, what part of it allows you to load your own ringtones? cuz i wish i knew this about my hero
-1Jason May 10, 2007
SMAF-MA5 Ringtones are the highest bitrate format ringtones are supported.
-1Whammy May 10, 2007
Does the ring around the D-Pad have the same rainbow color thing like the Hero did?
-1Lori May 10, 2007
Any word on SSH coming for the Ocean?
-1Thomas May 10, 2007
random question….. does it happen to have some kind of setting to make a sound when u slide it open like the sidekick?
oh and does it come with decent ringtones?
+1Vincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
[quote comment="21942"]Does the ring around the D-Pad have the same rainbow color thing like the Hero did?[/quote]
Not that I’ve seen.
-1Vincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
[quote comment="21943"]Any word on SSH coming for the Ocean?[/quote]
Not that I’m aware of.
-1Vincent Nguyen May 10, 2007
[quote comment="21944"]random question….. does it happen to have some kind of setting to make a sound when u slide it open like the sidekick?
oh and does it come with decent ringtones?[/quote]
Not that I can tell.
-1Vincent Nguyen May 11, 2007
[quote comment="21944"]oh and does it come with decent ringtones?[/quote]
Listen to the free rings that comes with Ocean and decide for yourself:
Neutralhttp://www.slashgear.com/helio.....115203.php
DashTheHand May 11, 2007
Is there any talk to add even the oldest available of personal ringtones such as midi’s?
-1JiveKooly May 11, 2007
I may be interested in getting this phone but im a little nervous. Ive had the sidekick for years so im really nervous.
Im not a big phone person, Im an AIM and email person. I just want to know if the IM works as well as the sidekick AIM. Is it easy to navigate from conversation to conversation?
Im a little concerned with the sound thing. I like to have different sound settings for different features. like I ususally keep the email, text and IM messaging silent, but I keep the phone on vibrate. this is impossible with the Ocean? Would it be wise to wait a few months for them to iron out the kinks before purchasing this?
+1Chad D May 11, 2007
Can you tether the Ocean to your laptop to use as a modem?
+1Vincent Nguyen May 11, 2007
[quote comment="22000"]Can you tether the Ocean to your laptop to use as a modem?[/quote]
I confirmed with Helio representative that no tethering is permitted.
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 11, 2007
[quote comment="21998"]I may be interested in getting this phone but im a little nervous. Ive had the sidekick for years so im really nervous.
Im not a big phone person, Im an AIM and email person. I just want to know if the IM works as well as the sidekick AIM. Is it easy to navigate from conversation to conversation?
Im a little concerned with the sound thing. I like to have different sound settings for different features. like I ususally keep the email, text and IM messaging silent, but I keep the phone on vibrate. this is impossible with the Ocean? Would it be wise to wait a few months for them to iron out the kinks before purchasing this?[/quote]
IM works great – as good or better than SK3. Existing contacts are listed in another tab keeping all your conversastions conveniently in one location. Yeah, the sound thing needs to get fixed – extremely annoying to get a “ding” everytime you send and receive a message.
NeutralMichaelLee May 12, 2007
Does it support MMF ringtones? If so, can this be done when/if the sync manager comes out for the Ocean? Also, can I change backgrounds on the Ocean using the sync manager?
If it does support MMF ringtones, I can definitely upload customized ringtones!!!!!!!!!
-1MichaelLee May 12, 2007
Also, I’m aware that the background is 240*320……..When you switch to landscape mode, how does the background change? —> Does it stretch out the picture or is it basically just the same picture as in vertical mode, and the sides are left blacked out?
-1Tyler May 12, 2007
When do you think they will fix the sound problem with AIM?
If you have the phone on vibrate, will the IM’s vibrate or does the phone have to be In Silent mode for the IM’s to vibrate?
-1Vincent Nguyen May 12, 2007
[quote comment="22048"]When do you think they will fix the sound problem with AIM?
If you have the phone on vibrate, will the IM’s vibrate or does the phone have to be In Silent mode for the IM’s to vibrate?[/quote]
No idea if and when the sound thing with IM will get an update. You must put the device into Silent mode for IM to vibrate.
NeutralTyler May 12, 2007
Also, I have heard that there is a way to make MP3’s ringtones. There is an option somewhere in their software you can download from their site that allows you to make it a ringtone file..
-1http://www.phonescoop.com/arti.....;fi=886024
It is on this forum, I know it says drift but I’m sure it would work for the ocean as well..
Tyler May 12, 2007
I’m thinking about getting an Ocean very soon, but if I were to get one would I be able to get the fix for the IM sound problem if they release one, or would they just start manufacturing them with the fix?
-1Vincent Nguyen May 12, 2007
I don’t think it’s a bug or anything like that – but Helio simply didn’t think to add it as a feature to turn “off or on” the notification within the software.
The other thing I noticed with Gmail is you cannot select “labels” to display. So what’s in your inbox is what you get. This is a problem for me because I label all my emails and archive 99% of them. Since there’s no search function and I can’t view archive emails I’ve labeled, this is an inconvenient. Gmail app allows search and select labels to view – I hope Helio will provide these two enhancements in the future updates.
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 12, 2007
[quote comment="22026"]Also, I’m aware that the background is 240*320……..When you switch to landscape mode, how does the background change? —> Does it stretch out the picture or is it basically just the same picture as in vertical mode, and the sides are left blacked out?[/quote]
background in portrait mode are full (which is nice). But in landscape, they’re sized down leaving the about half an inch on either side with nothing. Looks kind of weird but it doesn’t matter much to me. Only time I’m in landscape mode is when I’m using some applications so I hardly see the background. This is going to the a problem with the iPhone as well.
NeutralTyler May 12, 2007
Sorry to keep annoying you with questions and stuff but, if I were to get the ocean before they release the update for the IM sound thing would I be able to download it or do I have to wait and get one?
-1Tyler May 12, 2007
You do just log into AIM on the Ocean and other messengers, rather than setting an away message for like aim saying you are on your mobile phone. You don’t need to change your aim settings on your computer for the messages to be sent to your phone right? You can just log into it on your phone…
-1Vincent Nguyen May 12, 2007
[quote comment="22054"]Sorry to keep annoying you with questions and stuff but, if I were to get the ocean before they release the update for the IM sound thing would I be able to download it or do I have to wait and get one?[/quote]
I don’t know the answer to this.
-1Casey May 13, 2007
Nice review. I’m currently using a drift, and was really disappointed at the performance (switched from a SideKick3) of pretty much all the apps. There was zero multi-tasking… AIM and MSN rarely worked (when I ‘received an IM’, i’d run the program, but nothing would come up…) and everything takes forever to load… even just going into the ‘games’ or ‘apps’ menu takes about 30 seconds to load…
How does this device perform comparatively? SK3 was a great device, but the internet was too slow… switched to helio for faster web connection, and got shafted w/ a laggy interface…
I like my Drift, but I’m really hoping for a more powerful phone. EV-DO +HTML is a grand idea…
I don’t know how much you’ve played w/ the Drift, but I’m hopin’ for a solid comparison between the two… Is it worth switching over? $300 isn’t too much, and i’m more than willing to pay it for a jump in performance… WAP browsing is the pits and being without instant messaging apps (due to the fact that they simply don’t work well on the drift) is something I’ve grown accustomed to, but not by choice…
To me, the drift is more of a phone, and less of a ‘device’ than my Sidekick was… But the ocean looks like everything the Sidekick 3 should’ve been…
What’s the word?
Buy it? or don’t?
-1-Casey
Tyler May 13, 2007
What do you know about promo codes?
-1Are any fake, and can they hurt you like identity theft or stealing your credit card number?
Vincent Nguyen May 13, 2007
Casey, I think my review was extremely detailed – but to answer your question between the drift and ocean…hands down the ocean rock 1000% if nothing more for the QWERTY keyboard. How fast can you type without one?
The sk3 is a freaken beast – ever try putting it into your pocket? Ocean is extremly pocketable. Comparing Sprint’s EV-DO to T-Mobile’s Edge on SK3 is no comparison. Sprint win hands down.
The only two features missing on Ocean is synching with Exchange and GTalk. Both of which should be available.
Only you can answer if the upgrade is worth the upgrade. For me, if I was already a Helio subscriber, Ocean is definitely an upgrade. If nothing else, I’ll be able to write complete sentences in text and emails…plus not so much frustration from pecking on a dial pad.
Good luck.
+1Casey May 14, 2007
word’em up.
Yeah, your review was great~! It really pushed me over the edge, and I’ll be ordering tomorrow methinks.
Goodbye drift~! Hello Ocean!!!
NeutralCasey May 14, 2007
[quote comment="22112"]What do you know about promo codes?
Are any fake, and can they hurt you like identity theft or stealing your credit card number?[/quote]
You call helio and ask them that… This forum isn’t really attached to helio at all, but simply reviewing their new device.
Try contacting Yvette Morales (ymorales@helio.com). She’s been a wonderful help to me, as well as people I’ve referred.
Tell ‘er Casey Griffin sent you ;)
+1Casey May 14, 2007
Vincent,
How’re you feelin’ about the battery life? My Drift lasts one day, if I’m lucky… any improvements?
Thanks for takin’ the time to answer all of our questions by the way
NeutralKa'ron May 14, 2007
Vincent
I am a loyal sidekick user and I had a couple of questions.
Are you able to security lock your device?
Are you able to copy/paste text fields?
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 14, 2007
[quote comment="22123"]Vincent,
How’re you feelin’ about the battery life? My Drift lasts one day, if I’m lucky… any improvements?
Thanks for takin’ the time to answer all of our questions by the way[/quote]
Battery life is on par with other phones in the same category. “Always on” 3G does drain the battery much quicker – but Ocean should get you through an entire days worth of usage.
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 14, 2007
[quote comment="22138"]Vincent
I am a loyal sidekick user and I had a couple of questions.
Are you able to security lock your device? [Sorry I haven't tried yet]
Are you able to copy/paste text fields? [I didn't see a way to select/copy and paste text fields - sorry]
[/quote]
NeutralDominic May 16, 2007
A work-around has been found for the IM alert vibrating:
http://www.howardforums.com/sh.....?t=1162946
Could be a bit of a hassle, but worth it IMO.
Neutralmickaloo May 16, 2007
Unfortunately web content is reformatted through Google Wireless Transcoder no matter what you do. So not only will it not play flash, but a lot of site functionality is lost. Can’t even click on most stuff on the Helio site itself. A bit embarrasing, I would say, no?
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 16, 2007
[quote comment="22268"]Unfortunately web content is reformatted through Google Wireless Transcoder no matter what you do. So not only will it not play flash, but a lot of site functionality is lost. Can’t even click on most stuff on the Helio site itself. A bit embarrasing, I would say, no?[/quote]
It a hassle but at the end of the page, you can click on the “full browser” link. I totally agree with you on this!!! At least give us an option to either have the web page get reformated or full browser. Perhaps Helio will listen to our feedback and update this OTA.
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 16, 2007
[quote comment="22264"]A work-around has been found for the IM alert vibrating:
http://www.howardforums.com/sh.....?t=1162946
Could be a bit of a hassle, but worth it IMO.[/quote]
IMO, it’s still poorly designed. At the end of the day, the devil is in the details. You can get all the BIG functions in place, but miss something as simple as allow users to turn off an annoying “DING” or “vibrates” is just bad – no matter how you spin it.
— I confirm the above work around does stop the dinging and vibration. The good news is the Ocean still vibrates for incoming calls. Thanks for sharing!
+1Ewdison Then May 16, 2007
anyone managed to get imap email to work?
+1Vincent Nguyen May 16, 2007
or pop mail…
+1Vincent Nguyen May 16, 2007
btw, if someone sends you a link to a website during a chat, you can scroll up, click on it and open it up in the browser. very nice.
+1Ka'ron May 16, 2007
I ended up getting the ocean. By being a sidekick3 owner and being so used to the ease of use. I couldn’t use my pre existing pics for my contacts without having to download, the thing froze on me 5 times (5 times in 3 hours sheesh) and the only way I could get it to cut back on was to remove the battery.
I think that if we could get the bugs out of this thing, it would be a OUTSTANDING device, but the bugs are killing me. Couldn’t get pop email to work either.
I dont know guys.
+1Vincent Nguyen May 16, 2007
[quote comment="22274"]I ended up getting the ocean. By being a sidekick3 owner and being so used to the ease of use. I couldn’t use my pre existing pics for my contacts without having to download, the thing froze on me 5 times (5 times in 3 hours sheesh) and the only way I could get it to cut back on was to remove the battery.
I think that if we could get the bugs out of this thing, it would be a OUTSTANDING device, but the bugs are killing me. Couldn’t get pop email to work either.
I dont know guys.[/quote]
I had a number of “pauses” or lock ups, then the system freed itself up (I never had to take out the battery though – that’s hard core). I asked Helio representative about this and was told they’d never seen it happen since beta test units. Anyone experience the same?
NeutralDAtdue May 17, 2007
Can u customize a ringtone for the messaging section instead of having the same ole boring tone?
NeutralJiveKooly May 17, 2007
wow after reading these reviews, I think Im going to hold off on getting the Helio until they upgrade it and work out the kinks. Im not happy about the lack of sound profile settings, and if pop mail doesnt work it is of no use to me.
Hopefully they will upgrade the device PRONTO, or maybe sidekick will get intimidated by what the Helio offers, and race to make a better device. I really like the ease of the funcionality of the sidekick and id hate to give it up. I wish theyd come out with a more impressive device. Something with a video camera, and more customizable capabilities. like downloading software, games and ringtones from third parties. tmobile is being really selfish as far as that goes. I am still on the sidekick 2 because I feel that it works better than the sk3. I had the sk3 for 1 week and Ihated it. The phone echoes, the speaker phone is very low, the camera is extra grainy, and you have to repurchase all of the apps that you downloaded. it wasnt worth it.
The sk2 would be ok if the keys didnt peel. I was so disappointed in the sk3! now I have to wait and wait and wait for something new and better..or at least as good without peeling keys. I was excited about the Helio ocean but my bubble is slowly getting busted :o(
+1Terence May 17, 2007
I need help to pair my Helio Ocean to my Samsung D900 and Nokia 6131 via Bluetooth. It finds the device, but it wouldn’t let me pair it. It came up with the following error message – “Sorry! This is an unsupported device”. I was with their Tech Support for 30 min this morning but she couldn’t figure it out either. Does anyone else have this problem- not being able to pair with other Bluetooth enable phones or PCs? Please help. Thanks!
P.S. I was able to pair it with my Dell H200 Bluetooth Stereo headshet.
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 17, 2007
[quote comment="22311"]I need help to pair my Helio Ocean to my Samsung D900 and Nokia 6131 via Bluetooth. It finds the device, but it wouldn’t let me pair it. It came up with the following error message – “Sorry! This is an unsupported device”. I was with their Tech Support for 30 min this morning but she couldn’t figure it out either. Does anyone else have this problem- not being able to pair with other Bluetooth enable phones or PCs? Please help. Thanks!
P.S. I was able to pair it with my Dell H200 Bluetooth Stereo headshet.[/quote]
It’s really silly that some devices aren’t compatible due to the Bluetooth stacks – this issue will need to get addressed by Helio as well as Samsung, Nokia and others. Sorry to hear you’re having this problem.
NeutralTalik May 18, 2007
I ended up getting one, and it seems like they made a great phone with a poorly thought out operating system.
There are many features that just don’t work, such as pop3 and imap email(for those of you that were asking about this, it successfully logs into the email server then logs out without requesting any emails — a definite bug) and the ability to sync(which they don’t offer an application on their website like they do for other phones). I assume with a fairly high certainty that these types of bugs will be addressed and fixed shortly.
A little more disconcerting, though, is that every feature this phone offers doesn’t seem to have enough options or settings. For example, the email browser doesn’t let you set the homepage, turn on and off web formatting, or do anything about cookies, cache, and whatnot. As Vincent pointed out, the IM sounds can’t be individually changed, so you end up making an annoying noise on every outgoing message as well as incoming. Come to think of it, every sound the phone makes should be able to be turned off individually. Email doesn’t have any sort of auto-refresh feature, and currently the only way to get your email is to manually “download now”. I hope that many of these features will be added as Helio offers updates. I remember the sidekick 1 when it first came out, and the first couple of months there were updates almost weekly.
Then there are the gross design limitations that I assume will never be fixed, but I strongly hope so. Things such as the phone’s poorly implemented multitasking. SMS and IMs seem to be delayed, and I often get 3 or 4 messages at once, rather than as they come in. GPS should be faster to update and more accurate. And I’d like Buddy Beacon to use Google Maps. Or better yet, the Google Maps application to show your buddies natively.
My last caveat is that I wish Helio wouldn’t charge for their apps and ringtones. That’s one of the reasons I moved away from T-Mobile. Don’t fall into their shortcomings! Why can’t someone offer a good device with palm, windows, or better yet, linux!
Don’t let my rant fool you, though. All in all it’s a good phone that just has a few kinks to work out. It’s the best thing in the American market. And certainly the best for the low price.
So, now to my questions: Does anyone know anything about Helio’s update schedule for this phone? do they have any patches upcoming? Are there any developer forums?
NeutralFrixFrixFrix May 18, 2007
[quote comment="22276"]I had a number of “pauses” or lock ups, then the system freed itself up (I never had to take out the battery though – that’s hard core). I asked Helio representative about this and was told they’d never seen it happen since beta test units. Anyone experience the same?[/quote]
I have the same issue with pauses/lock ups. Most of the time it goes away after a few seconds, but sometimes the display will turn off and the keys will go dark, then after a pause, everything will come back on. It mostly happens while using AIM or when switching to landscape mode from a new IM alert. Very disconcerting. It’s really my biggest problem with the device so far.
Aside from the display not turning off while using the charger. Why is it necessary for the display to be on while the phone is plugged into the wall? Very inconvenient when it’s right next to my head and I’m trying to sleep.
NeutralJebran May 18, 2007
Maybe I will buy a Heilo Ocean. I want to know if T-mobile sim card will work on Heilo Ocean? I don’t want to pay $60 dollars a month.
+1Vincent Nguyen May 18, 2007
[quote comment="22385"]Maybe I will buy a Heilo Ocean. I want to know if T-mobile sim card will work on Heilo Ocean? I don’t want to pay $60 dollars a month.[/quote]
Short answer is no. Helio is on CDMA network while T-Mobile is GSM.
+2Vincent Nguyen May 18, 2007
[quote comment="22365"]I ended up getting one, and it seems like they made a great phone with a poorly thought out operating system.
There are many features that just don’t work, such as pop3 and imap email(for those of you that were asking about this, it successfully logs into the email server then logs out without requesting any emails — a definite bug) and the ability to sync(which they don’t offer an application on their website like they do for other phones). I assume with a fairly high certainty that these types of bugs will be addressed and fixed shortly.
A little more disconcerting, though, is that every feature this phone offers doesn’t seem to have enough options or settings. For example, the email browser doesn’t let you set the homepage, turn on and off web formatting, or do anything about cookies, cache, and whatnot. As Vincent pointed out, the IM sounds can’t be individually changed, so you end up making an annoying noise on every outgoing message as well as incoming. Come to think of it, every sound the phone makes should be able to be turned off individually. Email doesn’t have any sort of auto-refresh feature, and currently the only way to get your email is to manually “download now”. I hope that many of these features will be added as Helio offers updates. I remember the sidekick 1 when it first came out, and the first couple of months there were updates almost weekly.
Then there are the gross design limitations that I assume will never be fixed, but I strongly hope so. Things such as the phone’s poorly implemented multitasking. SMS and IMs seem to be delayed, and I often get 3 or 4 messages at once, rather than as they come in. GPS should be faster to update and more accurate. And I’d like Buddy Beacon to use Google Maps. Or better yet, the Google Maps application to show your buddies natively.
My last caveat is that I wish Helio wouldn’t charge for their apps and ringtones. That’s one of the reasons I moved away from T-Mobile. Don’t fall into their shortcomings! Why can’t someone offer a good device with palm, windows, or better yet, linux!
Don’t let my rant fool you, though. All in all it’s a good phone that just has a few kinks to work out. It’s the best thing in the American market. And certainly the best for the low price.
So, now to my questions: Does anyone know anything about Helio’s update schedule for this phone? do they have any patches upcoming? Are there any developer forums?[/quote]
You’re right – the Ocean is a work in progresss with a list of To-Dos to check off.
NeutralThomas May 19, 2007
Ive had my Ocean for about a week now and im pretty satisfied with it. I think its the best bang for the buck and im sure the updates will come out soon. Ive only experienced lag during AIM and switching from landscape to portrait while an app is running. Hopefully Slashgear will post up the linky for the updates/patches ;]
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 19, 2007
[quote comment="22399"]Ive had my Ocean for about a week now and im pretty satisfied with it. I think its the best bang for the buck and im sure the updates will come out soon. Ive only experienced lag during AIM and switching from landscape to portrait while an app is running. Hopefully Slashgear will post up the linky for the updates/patches ;][/quote]
great to hear you’re satified with Ocean! No linky to the updates/patches my friend…Helio does every OTA (over the air). Gotta love modern day technology. However, as soon as we find out when updates are available, we’ll be sure to let you know asap.
NeutralDon May 19, 2007
Got my Ocean today. No problem with it what’s so ever. Gmail pop mail works just fine, same with AOL, and Helio mail. Be sure to indicate whether you want to allow pop mail access or not on your email account. Gmail pop is auto off, you will have to manually turn that on in the email settings.
As for lockups and pauses, you may have gotten a defective phone. I got defective drift where the maps would take 5 mins to load. I RMA’d it and got new one with no bugs. Helio’s RMA service is excellent and I would advise you to take full advantage of it.
In short, I love this baby. Every thing I need and then some. Heck, I could use it for self-defense. just put in a sock or throw it like a brick. JK JK JK!
+1Ewdison Then May 19, 2007
Many java applications are not in landscape mode yet but i hope they will in teh future :)
NeutralMohammad Ali May 20, 2007
I really can’t wait for mine, the wait is long over due!
NeutralCasey May 21, 2007
Got my ish, and I’ve gotta say it’s a HUGE improvement over the Drift ^^; Still lacking a little bit in some areas compared to the Sidekick 3.
The one thing I’m most disappointed with is the lack of ability to automatically query pop email… I mean… seriously… we get an email address w/ our service, but having to “Send/Recieve” manually really blows… I don’t wanna have to check my crap every 15 minutes… it should automatically querry all activated email accounts, and give me a new message alert…
Everything else, I can live with… and the 3g speeds… are SUCH an improvement, even over the drift. The all-around processing capacity of this device is 10+ times that of other helio devices. I’m very glad I switched. Now, as expected, I will have to wait for improvements to trickle in.
One cool new feature that’s a vast improvement over previous Helio devices, is the ability to save pictures right off the web. For example, if you browse to a ‘background’ site such as interfacelift.com, or pixelgirlpresents.com (interfacelift has more options as far as resolutions go) you can download backgrounds and such for free~ and the fact that the 3g makes it extremely snappy and effortless makes everything even better.
I went two days w/o charging (phone died around 6pm on teh second day) and with heavy use of internet, email, and phone, (still playing with it^^) so that’s definitely an improvement even over the SK2 or 3…
Definitely worth the $300. I won’t go back to tmobile… 3g is where it’s at~ if they can just fix the email, i’m good to go…
Neutral-Casey
Juan May 21, 2007
Ahhh.. i can’t wait any longer.. does anyone know a faster way to get the device? I ordered mine on Friday and am expecting it to come on wednesday.
NeutralDon May 21, 2007
[quote comment="22488"]Got my ish, and I’ve gotta say it’s a HUGE improvement over the Drift ^^; Still lacking a little bit in some areas compared to the Sidekick 3.
The one thing I’m most disappointed with is the lack of ability to automatically query pop email… I mean… seriously… we get an email address w/ our service, but having to “Send/Recieve” manually really blows… I don’t wanna have to check my crap every 15 minutes… it should automatically querry all activated email accounts, and give me a new message alert…
Everything else, I can live with… and the 3g speeds… are SUCH an improvement, even over the drift. The all-around processing capacity of this device is 10+ times that of other helio devices. I’m very glad I switched. Now, as expected, I will have to wait for improvements to trickle in.
One cool new feature that’s a vast improvement over previous Helio devices, is the ability to save pictures right off the web. For example, if you browse to a ‘background’ site such as interfacelift.com, or pixelgirlpresents.com (interfacelift has more options as far as resolutions go) you can download backgrounds and such for free~ and the fact that the 3g makes it extremely snappy and effortless makes everything even better.
I went two days w/o charging (phone died around 6pm on teh second day) and with heavy use of internet, email, and phone, (still playing with it^^) so that’s definitely an improvement even over the SK2 or 3…
Definitely worth the $300. I won’t go back to tmobile… 3g is where it’s at~ if they can just fix the email, i’m good to go…
-Casey[/quote]
Haven’t had a problem with mail querying up. All I had to do was hit once on the initial setup and I get prompt mail alerts all the time without refreshing or using the manual recieve option.
+1Tyler May 22, 2007
I need to know if anyone has helio, if you can send texts, im’s, emails etc. from a grey zone on their coverage map…
Anyone know?
Neutraljesse May 23, 2007
Hey I’m thinking about ordering an Ocean this friday. I live in LA, and I was just wondering, how is the actual phone coverage? Good signals and reception or is it sketch? Other then that question I’m pretty much sold on the thing. Sounds tight.
NeutralDigital Reaper May 23, 2007
[quote comment="22580"]I need to know if anyone has helio, if you can send texts, im’s, emails etc. from a grey zone on their coverage map…
Anyone know?[/quote]
Excellent question. Can we surf the net and IM and receive mail in the gray areas of the coverage map. Helio states it’s available in my area but no specifics.
NeutralDave May 25, 2007
I got POP email to work just fine, no problems.
I have been noticing that the GPS w/ Google Maps is not quite as accurate as I would like. It can be like a half a city block off on locating the device on a map. Anyone else seeing this? How accurate does Helio claim their GPS to be?
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 25, 2007
[quote comment="22689"]I got POP email to work just fine, no problems.
I have been noticing that the GPS w/ Google Maps is not quite as accurate as I would like. It can be like a half a city block off on locating the device on a map. Anyone else seeing this? How accurate does Helio claim their GPS to be?[/quote]
Yep, you’re right. I was in Manhattan this past week and tested the GPS with Google map and experienced the same.
NeutralMohammad Ali May 26, 2007
Yea the GPS map is pretty inconsistent..as for the grey map areas….Your more than likely going to recieve everything, sometime with delay obviously….but when it says it has sent things like IM texts etc….you will find the recieving person telling you they did not get what you send that is the only thing i have noticed.
NeutralThomas May 26, 2007
Another compliment that i’de like to add to this device is the SOUND quality. I transfered a bunch of mp3’s to it from my comp and i let it play on its loudest while in my pocket. It’s so clear! Some friends even sent WAV files through bluetooth and they said it sounded way clearer on my Ocean. One more reason for you to buy this thing :]
NeutralSteve L. May 27, 2007
I am very interested in the Ocean, however I was wondering if their is any way to let a pc/laptop use the helio for internet? They charge you for use on the phone and not including laptop use on the device is a deal breaker for me, otherwise the phone seems great!
NeutralVincent Nguyen May 27, 2007
[quote comment="22716"]I am very interested in the Ocean, however I was wondering if their is any way to let a pc/laptop use the helio for internet? They charge you for use on the phone and not including laptop use on the device is a deal breaker for me, otherwise the phone seems great![/quote]
Helio’s official stance on this is NO. Very sorry.
NeutralKen Arneson May 27, 2007
I got my Helio Ocean, but was disappointed in the web browser implementation and the fact that I couldn’t get it to easily sync with Microsoft Outlook.
The browser doesn’t render pages nearly as well as IE or Safari, and there’s no easy way to navigate pages because there’s no styles or other pointing capabilities. After my disappointment with the phone, Helio made me walk through fire in order to return it. It took over a week and several phone calls before they would finally let me port my number back to Sprint.
The fact that Helio uses such hard-ball tactics to make it difficult to leave, makes me even more resolute in my decision that I do not want them to be my carrier for the next two years. I recommend that anyone who signs up with them really, really think about whether this is the only phone you want to have for the next two years.
+1Dave May 29, 2007
[quote comment="22690"][quote comment="22689"]I got POP email to work just fine, no problems.
I have been noticing that the GPS w/ Google Maps is not quite as accurate as I would like. It can be like a half a city block off on locating the device on a map. Anyone else seeing this? How accurate does Helio claim their GPS to be?[/quote]
Yep, you’re right. I was in Manhattan this past week and tested the GPS with Google map and experienced the same.[/quote]
OK, I revise my earlier statement. The GPS tends to be more like 1 KM or more off target.
-1Decay June 1, 2007
There is a way to get your own personal ringtones on the phone.
1. take an mp3 file that is less than about a mb.
2. change the .mp3 extention to .mmf
3. email it to your phone or yahoo, msn, etc.
4. open your email on the phone and download
5. after you download, you can save the mmf file to your ringtones
that should be it. I wrote that from memory. I learned it on Heliocity. Great website and they have the music from the helio commercial available for download.
http://www.heliocity.net/
NeutralJin June 1, 2007
ocean or env wuts better? does the price say it all?
-1JPL June 2, 2007
[quote comment="22787"][quote comment="22690"][quote comment="22689"]I got POP email to work just fine, no problems.
I have been noticing that the GPS w/ Google Maps is not quite as accurate as I would like. It can be like a half a city block off on locating the device on a map. Anyone else seeing this? How accurate does Helio claim their GPS to be?[/quote]
Yep, you’re right. I was in Manhattan this past week and tested the GPS with Google map and experienced the same.[/quote]
OK, I revise my earlier statement. The GPS tends to be more like 1 KM or more off target.[/quote]
1 kilometer?!?!
I should have known it was too good to be true
NeutralHector June 3, 2007
Hello, I’ve got my Ocean for about 4 days, it’s been working great till’ today,, I cant acces the web via the surf menu opcion… when I try to get online, it shows a message that reads… “DTD ERROR, BACK TO THE PREVIOUS PAGE” and then it stays just blank…
I dont know what to do, I called Helio support but they tell me that the problem its fixed and then I check again and the problem is still there…
can anyone help me please?? thank you very much
+4acp June 4, 2007
I’ve been looking for a Sidekick II replacement and I’m wondering if the Ocean will do it for me. I love the way my SK functions; it multi-tasks well, it’s easy to navigate, links and phone numbers in email are “active” (meaning clicking exectues the webpage/phone call), the email app works perfectly (easy to read, send, etc), IM is a breeze, and I’m in love with the scroll. It’s just too big and bulky. I love it as a “device”, but I’m just totally thrilled with it as a phone.
From what I’ve seen online, I’m really interested in the Ocean. I think I might have everything I want, but I’m wondering if it has smart-typing of any kind. When I text on my Sidekick, I can enter “im” and it will auto-correct to “I’m”. It also capitalizes the first letter in every sentance. Does the Ocean do the same?
+31234 June 4, 2007
could you watch youtube on the helio ocean?
Neutraljuan June 5, 2007
i think is great i should get one as soon as possible
NeutralVernick McGeller June 5, 2007
Hey Can u Download music to the ocean wirelessly or not with their online music store and is the internet just as good as that of the Sidekick 3. Please somebody help me with This PLease Pleasze. This will help me make a choice on wheather or not to buy a Helio OCean. thank U
NeutralChris Lim June 5, 2007
[quote comment="22969"][quote comment="22787"][quote comment="22690"][quote comment="22689"]I got POP email to work just fine, no problems.
I have been noticing that the GPS w/ Google Maps is not quite as accurate as I would like. It can be like a half a city block off on locating the device on a map. Anyone else seeing this? How accurate does Helio claim their GPS to be?[/quote]
Yep, you’re right. I was in Manhattan this past week and tested the GPS with Google map and experienced the same.[/quote]
OK, I revise my earlier statement. The GPS tends to be more like 1 KM or more off target.[/quote]
1 kilometer?!?!
I should have known it was too good to be true[/quote]
I am in Orange County at home and the GPS is on target, plus or minus a few houses (I’m currently at home). It’s definitely not off by even 1/10th of a mile where I am.
-1Chris Lim June 5, 2007
Oops, the nested quote didn’t show up.
“I am in Orange County at home and the GPS is on target, plus or minus a few houses (I’m currently at home). It’s definitely not off by even 1/10th of a mile where I am.” is my input, everything else is quoted.
NeutralAdina June 7, 2007
Do you know if the 160 megabyte data limit that they had on the Helio Hybrid also applies to the phones? I’m thinking about getting an Ocean but if I can only use 160 mb of data every month then I’m not sure its worth it. But then again I have no clue how easy or hard it would be to rack up that much data usage.(any of you have any ideas of what it would take to get to 160 mb?) I was really excited about the Ocean and the All-In plan of $65 for 500 minutes and “unlimited” data usage but now I’m kind of weary of it. Any help would be MUCH appreciated.
NeutralJay June 7, 2007
I love the phone. It has better features than Side Kick3. The only problem I have is with HELIO. I ordered my phone a week ago and told them to transfer my number from Tmobile. But they didnt. Then I got the phone and cant use it because Im still waiting on them to port the number.
-2cs June 7, 2007
[quote comment="23006"]I’ve been looking for a Sidekick II replacement . . .From what I’ve seen online, I’m really interested in the Ocean. I think I might have everything I want, but I’m wondering if it has smart-typing of any kind. When I text on my Sidekick, I can enter “im” and it will auto-correct to “I’m”. It also capitalizes the first letter in every sentance.
Does the Ocean do the same?[/quote]
From what I can tell the answer is no.
And this is one of the deal breakers for me (as an old Sidekick II user).
The other annoying thing is the lack of sound profiles (or separate for IM).
I also had a problem with POP Gmail (had to refresh to get new mail) and the browser was not as reliable as I expected.
The personal ringtones trick (mentioned above) is quite cool and the screen is very bright and clear.
+3Lastly, on a bright note, the customer service has been extremely good (even when I phoned about returning it).
RAP June 9, 2007
I’m thinking of the Ocean for my son who is off to Boulder, CO for college. It seems this is a good phone for him given the features. Can I use any CDMA provider if I buy the Ocean without a contract? What provider are Ocean users using and is there perceived better provider? Finally, any experience with Finawireless — are they reputable?
NeutralZookie June 11, 2007
sorry, but the helio isnt as good as my sidekick 3. sure, it may seem cooler and everything, but the sidekick has the easiest jump menus, good music quality, and has updates every month. Sure, it may not be able to stream videos or music online, or even show myspace fully, but the sidekick 3 is definately better than the helio ocean. :]
-3cisco June 13, 2007
I have a question. I have friends with the skIII. If I can buy music & video from helio why cant it be use as a ring tone that defeats buying music. Right now i have a sprint phone w/ unlimited things i can do but the web on the ocean looks wonderful how about the looks for ebay is this a full screen also? how often will new updates will come to this phone b/c I really want to change carriers but this is also feeds off of SPRINT. My last question is I live in a area sprint can’t connect does the helio connect there or does it uses others tower for roaming I have to pay for?
NeutralMark June 14, 2007
I didn’t care for the Ocean and I’ve been trying to cancel my account for the past three weeks. Their customer service is by FAR the WORSE EVER. I’ve probably spent over 4 hours on the phone with 10-12 reps and they still can’t figure out how to cancel my account and send me a refund. Every time I call they swear that are going to cancel the account and that I will be getting a RMA label in 2 days to return the phone. Three business days later I call back and my account isn’t cancelled and I have to start all over again. I’m crossing my fingers that they did it right this time and I’ll get my money back.
-3HelioFan June 16, 2007
[quote comment="23420"]I didn’t care for the Ocean and I’ve been trying to cancel my account for the past three weeks. Their customer service is by FAR the WORSE EVER. I’ve probably spent over 4 hours on the phone with 10-12 reps and they still can’t figure out how to cancel my account and send me a refund. Every time I call they swear that are going to cancel the account and that I will be getting a RMA label in 2 days to return the phone. Three business days later I call back and my account isn’t cancelled and I have to start all over again. I’m crossing my fingers that they did it right this time and I’ll get my money back.[/quote]
I have been using the Ocean since it came out and must say…it’s awesome. I’ve also called their customer service a few times and had no problems so not sure what’s happening for you. If you are still having problems canceling, i think you can send a mail to talk@helio.com and that may help you
NeutralAdina June 16, 2007
[quote comment="23135"]Do you know if the 160 megabyte data limit that they had on the Helio Hybrid also applies to the phones? I’m thinking about getting an Ocean but if I can only use 160 mb of data every month then I’m not sure its worth it. But then again I have no clue how easy or hard it would be to rack up that much data usage.(any of you have any ideas of what it would take to get to 160 mb?) I was really excited about the Ocean and the All-In plan of $65 for 500 minutes and “unlimited” data usage but now I’m kind of weary of it. Any help would be MUCH appreciated.[/quote]
Ok ignore my last comment, I just ended up writing their customer service or whatever and they said that the 160mb limit doesn’t apply to their devices, it just applies to their wifi internet card that they don’t even have anymore.
NeutralSenSo June 17, 2007
I just ordered mine Friday. I’ll let you know my thoughts in about a week.
I did try one of the promo codes. It was for 75 off the Ocean, free activation, 25 off for four months, a 50 gift card and a free bluetooth headset. If they actually honor this promo deal, I’ll keep them for 24 months.
If they try to back out of ANY part of it, that tells me they are not honorable and I’ll take advantage of their 30 day option.
I am so tired of cell companies nickel and diming me to death, but I am more tired of them outright screwing me around.
HELIO, I’m counting out you!
Neutral(been through Verizon, Cingular, Sprint, T-Mobile and Virgin)
Billy June 18, 2007
I ordered my Ocean yesterday. I can’t wait to get it. Plus I used the promo code and go a really good deal. Way better than Cingular. I’m just going to use mine as a phone, to send text messages and listen to AAC files so, I think I should be fine with out running into any of the bugs mentioned.
I upgraded my phone with Cingular back at the beginning of the year and had to extend my contract for another 2 years. When I cancelled today, I told the representative that I signed up with Cingular and not AT&T and I didn’t want to go with them. He completely waived the early termination fee. Anyone stuck with Cingular might want to give it a try.
Neutralskipper June 18, 2007
u can get custom ringtones. just get an mp3 onto your computer and change the file extension to .mmf then email it to yourself and open it with your helio and save the attachment.
u will have to make the mp3 shorter oon your somputer using a program called mp3 scissors
NeutralJeff June 19, 2007
[quote comment="23498"]I ordered my Ocean yesterday. I can’t wait to get it. Plus I used the promo code and go a really good deal. Way better than Cingular. I’m just going to use mine as a phone, to send text messages and listen to AAC files so, I think I should be fine with out running into any of the bugs mentioned.
I upgraded my phone with Cingular back at the beginning of the year and had to extend my contract for another 2 years. When I cancelled today, I told the representative that I signed up with Cingular and not AT&T and I didn’t want to go with them. He completely waived the early termination fee. Anyone stuck with Cingular might want to give it a try.[/quote]
did u still recieve the same Number with helio that u had with cingular? This sounds like a decent idea but want to make sure i will get to keep my number? Also did u cancel with cingular befor actuvated with Helio? I was told if i wanted to keep my number to activate my ocean using my cingular number and they would contact cingular to have them release my number. In what order did u do it?
NeutralThanks
Billy June 21, 2007
[quote comment="23498"]did u still recieve the same Number with helio that u had with cingular? This sounds like a decent idea but want to make sure i will get to keep my number? Also did u cancel with cingular befor actuvated with Helio? I was told if i wanted to keep my number to activate my ocean using my cingular number and they would contact cingular to have them release my number. In what order did u do it?
Thanks[/quote]
I just went with a new number. I canceled with Cingular before I ordered my Ocean but I think you should still be able to get your number with-in a couple of weeks. They don’t put it back into the pool right away because you can still opt to go back with the company.
It’s a great device. I’ve had it for a day and I love it.
NeutralMadcap180 June 25, 2007
Let’s see.. If I had the choice.. 295 bucks for a Helio.. or 399 for a HTC 8525.. .. Sorry, 8525 WINS hands down.. IF you are going to have a device with spec such as the helio then Windows Mobile is a necessity.. Not to mention HTC Windows Mobile powered devices are FULLY customizable.. and I mean FULLY.. Mp3’s as ringtones, MMS messages, camera THEMES, Windows Mobile 6 .. Games are great such as Call of Duty, etc. 400-600mhz Processors.. I mean come on.. Helio sucks.
-7jessica June 25, 2007
I ordered my phone on friday (6-22-07) and i checkin my tracking # today and it says the shipping status is still pending. Dose anyone know how long it takes for it to be shpped out?
NeutralBrian June 26, 2007
[quote comment="23673"]I ordered my phone on friday (6-22-07) and i checkin my tracking # today and it says the shipping status is still pending. Dose anyone know how long it takes for it to be shpped out?[/quote]
Hey Jessica, according to my MANY conversations with Helio reps, it takes a “BUSINESS day or two”, i.e.- your order didn’t process over the weekend, so you *should* receive a tracking number by Wed, 06/26.
Be wary though, I had to go through quite frankly the WORST experience I’ve ever had with a mobile company before just to get my order through with Helio. I won’t bore anyone here with expansive details, but if anyone is interested I have my whole story posted on my blog. FYI, it’s titled “Helio – Try Hell-io”. I decided to post it as a help guide for people who are upset or frustrated with what I can honestly only describe as inept phone-based customer support.
On the other hand, email support and there non-”1-888-88-Helio” support staff are excellent.
+4Allan June 29, 2007
is there a way the applications dont close when you close both landscape and portrait mode??
NeutralMike B July 9, 2007
You can use mp3 as a ring tone. Just change the .mp3 to .mmf and email it to your phone.
NeutralKyle July 23, 2007
I was wondering if anyone knew if you can put music from your computer onto the Ocean or if the only way to get music was by buying it online.
NeutraljOeL July 24, 2007
hi, i want the ocean but i have SunCom Wireless and they use GSM technolgy, if i buy the ocean can i use it normally or will have problems with it?
NeutralMike July 25, 2007
[quote comment="24765"]I was wondering if anyone knew if you can put music from your computer onto the Ocean or if the only way to get music was by buying it online.[/quote]
Mine came with a usb cord and I just dragged and dropped music from my music folder on my desktop onto the helio music folder and they work fine.
NeutralAlex July 28, 2007
the games on it are they good and it says multiplayer does that mean same phone or can you hook up with other people and play over a wireless link thanks
NeutralTixToxk July 29, 2007
Guys, I greatly, greatly appreciate all your comments and even the supportive details and about the bugs and all that. I came here to get details on a device that I’ve been kind of unsure of getting. But now I know that it’d be worth my money. Sure it has some bugs and some other problems, but I think with great technology, there has to be a few screw-ups along the line, right? Look at the 360 and its red ring. And all that other crap. But um..thanks again.
P.S.: Vincent’s the man. ;D
NeutralJake July 30, 2007
[quote comment="24168"]You can use mp3 as a ring tone. Just change the .mp3 to .mmf and email it to your phone.[/quote]
Is this true? That is really the deciding factor for me. If you can make .mp3’s a ringtone, I’m ordering it today…can someone confirm this?
NeutralJeremy August 6, 2007
Yes, you can, Jake. Check out http://www.heliocity.net/ under the Guide section for a detailed explanation on how to.
Neutralkingz August 9, 2007
ayo does anybody kno if tha ocean can play songs like on ppls page when u on myspace
NeutralJohnny August 11, 2007
Just got my new ocean in…. I saw a promo code where you get it for 149.99 but I went through a retailer who does mainly business-2-business sales and if you tell them you work in an office (they won’t check if it’s true or not) they get you the ocean for 159.99 and give you a car adapter, leather case, and $30.00 in downloads for games…… I actually went over the $30.00 and they didn’t seem to care.. call them up 800-801-4174
Neutralantoinedomino@yahoo.com August 11, 2007
How long is the video camera.
NeutralJsun August 16, 2007
I don’t know if this was stated or not in the comments above i didn’t read them all being that there are alot, this is a really good review of the Helio Ocean, the videos were a bit rocky, but that will come with time,
love this phone
JW
NeutralAngelo August 30, 2007
[quote comment="25017"][quote comment="24168"]You can use mp3 as a ring tone. Just change the .mp3 to .mmf and email it to your phone.[/quote]
Is this true? That is really the deciding factor for me. If you can make .mp3’s a ringtone, I’m ordering it today…can someone confirm this?[/quote]
Yea, just rename your .mp3 file on your computer to .mmf. Example being kanye.mp3 to kanye.mmf. Then go to your hotmail or gmail or whatever email account you have and add the file you have renamed as an attachment and send it to you helio email account or yahoo email account (whichever one you choose to access under your messages options on your Ocean.) On your Helio Ocean, sign on to your prefered email and open the message. Just scroll over the attachment song and you will see the download option come up. Just hit the Flame looking button and it will start to download. After it completes, choose the Option SAVE AS RING when it pops up. And now you have a ringtone that was a personal .mp3. It seems like a lot of work but it is really not. Just email all the songs at once, and as your day goes on and you have some free minutes, just download what you can.
NeutralFavuQuad August 31, 2007
A lot of you guys talk a lot of crap with little or no knowledge of what u say!
the phone is new and its software will be improved with automated updates, just give a little time and stop crapping on everything. Helio is a innovative company and they have a bright future ahead of them.
On the personal note
NeutralNothing compares to this phone combined with price tag plus super fast cheap service and amount of features it has. will not find anything close to this period.
This is the closest thing to a “pocket friend” u can get.
VS September 5, 2007
I have had the ocean for almost 2 weeks and Im pretty happy with it. I was def thinking about the iphone- its interface is AMAZING and completely blows the ocean out of the water. but i kept the mindset of cost and basic functionality.. which is much better than most plans and phones out there…. actually its the best out there! 99 bucks unlimited everything?!? the freakin iphone plan only gives you approx 950 mins and 200 text for about the same price. I can easily check ALL of my differnent email accounts AIM is simple, and basic inet is pretty damn quick. Google maps is f*ckin amazing! live traffic info and in satalite mode i zoomed so close to my house I think I could see myself.
Surprizingly, the phone’s size is NOT a factor! i thought it was gonna be HUGE, but it wasnt. For 2 keyboards.. (the qwerty keyboard was one of the things that really sold me over the iphone) the size is pretty sweet. the camera has very good quality with one of the stronger flashes i have seen on a phone. you can easily upload the pics you take to your helioUp account or myspace or email. simple and no additional charge.
my probs with the phone:
-random slow freezing (which lasts 5 secs), and the occasional 30sec black out freeze.
-not enough detail settings (I had a slvr before and i could customize almost every setting, esp volume/sound profiles)..
-I dont know how to see my outgoing texts! maybe i just completely missed it or havent looked enough but im pretty sure you cant. (pls let me know if u know how to do this)
-the apps and games are dumb/expensive. I would love a weather widget like the iphone has.. FOR FREE cause it could easily do so.
-PICS!! you cant transfer pics via the usb cord. you have to use the ext mini SD card or email.. i guess you can get by bc unlimited net.. but still something that shouldnt be an issue.
-the speakerphone is incredibly weak, esp when compared to the volume it plays mp3’s (which is quite loud).. anyone know how to rectify that?
-no teathering! the bluetooth can only be used for a headset- for being such a mediacentric phone, you would think you would be able to do data transfer to your your computer or share pics/vidz with another friend;
-web browser SUCKS! hard to scroll with sites that have alot of links (which most basically do) and the google encoder sucks most of the time. it sucks not having FLASH capability. i got opera mini though and its really good… it will be better when they let you use it in landscape mode and the qwerty kerbord. until then annoying T9 will have to do.
-You tube?!? pshhh.. seriously being able to watch a few select videos that have been formated for mobile use is pretty lame. I cant watch my own vids that i have uploaded… and i have no interest in their sucky pool of videos
-battery life sucks. i know it has alot of features so that can be expected when you use the phone alot… i have a million chargers for the mini usb port seen on alot of phones, i wish this phone used that too.
I know I just totally hated on the fone and its hard to believe that I REALLY LIKE IT!!! i mean all the negatives are things i can look past bc of unlimited mins/data/text. its a pretty damn good media phone esp in comparison to everything out there (except the sexy iphone) i have uploaded vids sucessfully and made my own ring tones. The OS seems preetty basic so i expect to see Hacks, appz, and updates… but it seems that the iphone hype has everyone attn at the moment, so it could be awhile.
Lastly, Call quality is good. I would say its much better than tmobile but not as good as verizon. Remember its on sprint network, so i would ask sprint customers how happy they are with their service. i wish it was gsm so i could travel the world and show off my phone, but i guess im not going to be leaving the states anytime soon- much probs to the helio rate plans… and the props to Pantech (the maker of the ocean) will be given when i get a damn update!
oh btw, if you want to know how to still get 99$ unlimited everything.. email me. I’ll tell you how i did it. vsthemd@yahoo.com
NeutralVS September 5, 2007
oops in the last paragraph i meant to say:
Neutral“much PROPS (not probs) to the helio rate plans… and the props to Pantech (the maker of the ocean) will be given when i get a damn update!”
zack September 11, 2007
can anyone tell me where to get the promo codes?
Neutralfrankie September 13, 2007
[quote comment="21873"]forgot to mention that NO you cannot use MP3 as ringtones. This was never available from Helio and I don’t anticipate it to be available in the near or distant future.[/quote]
Neutralyea u can all u have to do is rename the file extension to .MMF instead of .mp3 send urself a email download set as ringtones done deal
frankie September 13, 2007
[quote comment="28447"]can anyone tell me where to get the promo codes?[/quote]
Neutralforget promo codes
just go to
finawireless.com
175 bux for a helio ocean thats a steal already
Jijuane September 14, 2007
someone is thinkin of Kanye/50….hey i just called helio customer service…worse service ever!!!! worse than sprint almost…and my deposit was to be 300+…the website says 35 to 125 and they work w/ u…the phone sounds cool and songs as ringtones are available; i have a buddy who got hers recently and says she can do it..still waiting on a decision though
“BigDook” presents “The Saaaaaauth Vol. 1″ coming soon from H-TownSound Inc Entertainment
NeutralWillie Style September 20, 2007
The phone is fine. The customer support sucks.
I bought the phone July 3, 2007. IT TOOK 34 DAYS TO TURN IT ON!!!!
Used it for a total of 8 minutes and a few text messeges. Now i am being charged for an early termination fee of $175.
Can somebody explain to me how I have 30 days to evaluate the phone but it was not turned on for the first 34 days.
Phone is cool but stay away from this company.
NeutralBubble Gum September 26, 2007
So I got my Ocean a week ago and on the 2nd day of having it, i already had to call customer support to have them reboot it. My internet wasnt working and only showing a white screen. They said this is normal for this phone and theyre trying to come up with an upgrade to fix it. Within this week, my phone froze on me 3 times and I had to take out the battery, which isnt easy to do. I needed to use a swiss army knife to help me out. Even my long nails wouldnt help. I used to have Verizon before and it worked very well at my house, but this phone dropped almost all my calls made in my house. The speaker phone is very very low, esp compared to the Verizon enV I had before. The battery does not last that long. On the brighter side, it is a good price for what this phone can do. The alerts for email, IM, and text work really well. I love the GPS maps function and the buddy beacon feature. Although you do have do update it each time u move locations. It doesn’t do it automatically. Im thinking of returning this phone and going back to Verizon. I much rather have a phone that doesnt drop my calls and that has better customer service.
NeutralJade October 8, 2007
Hey guys, im getting my phone on november 1st, thats when my sprint contract will be over. soooo IS IT REALLY WORTH IT? i’ve done my research and i can’t wait to get it, i’ve only seen 1 bad comment for every 20 to 30 good comments so thats good, Right?
Neutralare there any recent comment about the ocean?
MadMango October 23, 2007
I just received my Ocean yesterday. I t took 8 days to get after ordering because they were on backorder. I ordered from Finawireless. The phone was enabled 4 days before it showed-up on my doorstep. The phone is great. It has nice heft, the buttons feel right, the sliding movement is solid and positive. The surface of the phone has a good “tacky” feel, you don’t have to worry about it slipping out of your hands.
The interface takes some getting use to, but it is head and shoulders above and beyond the Verizon screens I am use to. I had no problem adding 76 Contacts, and the ability to “merge” Contact info ensures that you won’t have duplicate Contact entries for everyone on your list.
Battery life seems great. When I took it our of the box I had 3 bars on the power, and I used the phone from about 7pm-10pm constantly surfing, trying to see how long the battery would actually last.
The camera is nice, but a little washed out as I had read in other online reviews, but very manageable. I like the fact that the LED flash can also be used as a flashlight. This wasn’t the case on my previous phone.
NeutralRoni November 4, 2007
[quote comment="28033"]I
my probs with the phone:
-I dont know how to see my outgoing texts! maybe i just completely missed it or havent looked enough but im pretty sure you cant. (pls let me know if u know how to do this)
[/quote]
this is possible. i called helio and they showed me how to see my outgoing txt
go to message menu
Neutralgo to ur txt/pic inbox
go to menu[left soft key]
click on VIEW FOLDERS
and you will see ur sent box.
John November 4, 2007
This is John, the owner of HelioCellular.com and HelioMysto.com. First I want to say, business is incredible. These phones rock! I’m offering a SPECIAL for all new customers. This is for a limited time so act fast! Find the best deal you can find on the Helio phone you’re interested in. (This must be from an authorized Helio Dealer)…And I’ll BEAT!! it. If you pass the credit check and no fee is required…I’ll also throw in a FREE Bluetooth. Feel free to ask for me personally or speak to one of my knowledgeable representatives. We’ll offer you the best deal anywhere! You can contact us at http://www.HelioCellular.com 866-Yo-Helio 866-964-3546 or Click our chat button.
John
NeutralNatasha November 4, 2007
I am ready to purchase the Ocean and sign up for a plan, but I am a bit apprehensive about going with an online retailer. Can anyone recommend a retailer?
Should I go with an ‘authorized dealer’ or deal with Helio directly?
One online retailer informed me that
1) there is a Secondary Equipment Agreement, which states that I must maintain Helio service for 180 days and the phone must be maintained as a primary phone (don’t downgrade to a family plan), or else…….a $299.00 fee!!!
2) re-stocking fee of 50% of phone price if returned and phone can only be returned within initial 25 days.
Are these standard with Helio contracts?
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
NeutralStephen November 4, 2007
Natasha[quote comment="30738"]I am ready to purchase the Ocean……Any information would be greatly appreciated.[/quote]
I went with an online retailer and paid half price. It was better than paying full retail at Helio.com If you think you’ll return it within 30 days, buy it from Helio. If you’re buying it to keep it, buy it online.
NeutralNatasha November 4, 2007
Thanks Stephen.
The term ‘Secondary Equipment Agreement’ is actually a misnomer; it’s just a contract between the customer and the online retailer that the retailers require you to sign.
Its seems that all of the online retailers have customers sign a 2nd contract so that in the event you cancel (within 180 days), they get paid an early termination fee ($300), in addition to Helio.
So when you go with the online retailer, you’re signing 2 contracts – one with Helio (2 yrs) and one with the retailer (6 months). If you cancel, you pay 2 early termination fees – one to Helio ($175) and one to the retailer ($300). Oh well.
I’m going to go with the online retailer as well, as I’m not planning to cancel within 180 days.
NeutralNatasha November 12, 2007
I ended up purchasing directly from Helio.
Now you can get a much better deal from Helio: you can buy a ‘refurbished’ phone on their website (www.helio.com) for $99!
NeutralJaclyn November 14, 2007
I heard the service for helio is very poor and u cant use aim when the service dont worki and i love aim so i need to know if its true or not? cause iam really thinking about getting a helio or a sidekick lx and its a touch call exspecially w/ all these problems happening w/ the the ocean
NeutralLetsBFair November 24, 2007
If you are deaf or have a deaf friend or family member, you may want to consider sticking with the T-Mobile Sidekick. Unlike T-Mobile (with it’s Sidekick data-only plan), Helio requires its deaf users to purchase voice minutes. Helio will not respond to queries about what they expect their deaf users to do with this voice minutes. Helio looks great, but I’m sticking with T-Mobile for now.
Neutralamina November 28, 2007
for those who would like to add their own music to your Ocean, you can. There has been a master mind who has found the way!!!! Log onto http://www.heliocity.net and there are all the instructions for you need to follow to upload your own music from your PC or MAC useres. Enjoy your Ocean as I am…its everything in a Phone…its more than a phone!!!
Neutralamina November 28, 2007
The Process:
1. First, we must prepare the ringtone. If it’s an MMF, you’re set. If you’re using a MIDI, MP3, or WAV file, you must rename the extension to mmf. You don’t need to convert it, just change the extension. For example: Song.mp3 should become Song.mmf.
Windows XP: follow this guide to be able to view/change file extensions. Right click the file and click “rename”.
Mac OS X: right click the file and hit “Get Info”. Modify the extension under the “Name and Extension”.
2. On any computer with a net connection, send an e-mail to the Yahoo e-mail account with the MMF/Mp3/MIDI as an attachment (As mentioned above, MP3s must be renamed to have an mmf extension)
3. On your Ocean device, open the e-mail.
4. Highlight the attachment. This should change the ‘Compose’ option to ‘Download’.
5. Press the flame key. This will download the MMF/Mp3
6. Highlight the attachment – Notice that ‘Download’ has changed to ‘Action’
7. Press the flame key again.
8. Choose “Save to Rings”
9. Leave the mail program, and go to the ‘Customize’ screen, followed by ‘Rings’, and then ‘Free rings’. The files you downloaded earlier will be available here.
Check out the website as there will be more info and updates for you and your Helio…Peace
NeutralDrew December 1, 2007
I’m mainly interested in this phone for the GPS feature. I’m curious as to how this GPS works. I had seen a few phones that have to download new images of where you’re at and then display them, at 15-20 second intervals (that is if you’re lucky and have good service). Anyone know if this phone is like that or more like an actual GPS device like you’d use in a car?
NeutralStuart Halpryn December 1, 2007
john,
i notice that your HelioCellular web site still isn’t online…..
regards,
Neutralstuart
http://InternetMarketingProfitCenter.com – the #1 Rated Membership Site for Internet Marketers
http://NetActivated.com – if you didn’t get it at NetActivated, you paid WAY too much
Nick P December 6, 2007
I just got my Ocean and I love the way it is constructed. It has a really sturday feel to it. Also the new garmin navi is sick! I ordered it from Finawireless.com yesterday and it came today. Now I just have to wait from my free bluetooth to come
NeutralDJ December 7, 2007
I recieved my Ocean 2-days ago and have already used the Google maps application while driveing down the road. The new map sections loaded fairly quickly and I just loved the GPS becon that tells you your exact location on the map in real time as you travel. This is the main reason I bought the phone. I’ve never had anything but a regular phone with limited options. I traveled about 200 miles today haveing a full bar count. Im very Impressed with the Ocean so far. A real tribute to fairly cheap modern technology.
Neutraljonathan December 16, 2007
best phone i have ever owned! better than any other phone in the us. its a must buy!!!!!
NeutralTy December 16, 2007
Dang, they are some really good pictures to come from a phone!!
I like it as well, it’s pretty nice. I wish I had Helio… haha
NeutralTimothy December 24, 2007
If you’re looking for the best deal on a Helio Ocean?
NeutralGo to http://www.AuthorizedMerchants.com They’ll find you the best price and they only list Authorized Helio Dealers on their site. This is a FREE service for consumers and Authorized Helio Retailers.
Brandon December 24, 2007
[quote comment="22276"][quote comment="22274"]I ended up getting the ocean. By being a sidekick3 owner and being so used to the ease of use. I couldn’t use my pre existing pics for my contacts without having to download, the thing froze on me 5 times (5 times in 3 hours sheesh) and the only way I could get it to cut back on was to remove the battery.
I think that if we could get the bugs out of this thing, it would be a OUTSTANDING device, but the bugs are killing me. Couldn’t get pop email to work either.
I dont know guys.[/quote]
I had a number of “pauses” or lock ups, then the system freed itself up (I never had to take out the battery though – that’s hard core). I asked Helio representative about this and was told they’d never seen it happen since beta test units. Anyone experience the same?[/quote]
I have experienced quite a few lock ups with mine… I was trying to send a txt today and the screen went crazy on me when I switched to QWERK it locks up when I am surfing sometimes to. it does act funny but I love it. Especialy my blue tooth stereo head phones I got… they p0wne! lol
NeutralCole January 7, 2008
in fact you can add your own ringtones! :D
Neutralha its very easy to, you must convert them to .mmf format and then email the ringtone as an email attachement to your myhelio.com email account provided with the phone. must be under 1MB so like 30 to 45 secdonds max. but it works, i do it often.
Vic January 24, 2008
The ocean was a “cool” phone, but I felt as if it were oriented and would be better suited for a teenager with not many business-related needs.
NeutralI had the phone for about four days before I switched back to my original provider. The customer service was terrible which added to my cancellation. The phone sort of seemed to have a “one-track” mind, not being able to do much while using one application. I also didn’t like how access to my micro SD card was virtually eliminated once in the phone. It could only be accessed via synchronization with my PC or through which ever content channel I was trying to access. Music for instance could only be accessed through the the music player. I like being able to see all the files on the SD card. WIth of MSRP of about $450.00 it should definitely be some sort of smartphone. Th only things I did actually like were the 200MB storage capacity, the plan (all-in), the quick email retrieval, and the seemless change of picture orientation which slide up or the right.
Remi Jenkins February 21, 2008
[quote comment="21873"]forgot to mention that NO you cannot use MP3 as ringtones. This was never available from Helio and I don’t anticipate it to be available in the near or distant future.[/quote]
Actually you can, I do it all the time. What you do is edit an mp3 to the length that you want for the ringtone, normally I do 45 seconds because my Ocean has been known to ring that long, but change the extention from .mp3 to .mmf and them email it to your self. When you are viewing the email, you download the file, and once it has downloaded you click on action, and save as ringtone. You can find it under free rings when you want to assign it. :) Have a great day and I hope this helps someone.
Remi
NeutralKoniption February 22, 2008
Alright, just got my Ocean the other day, love the phone, amazing. Exactly what I expected. However, I have read from top to bottom of all the posts on here and not one has addressed the issue of being able to set music for text messages…… did I miss it? Or… has no body brought it up??
Thats the only thing I can’t seem to do… I like to customize my phone and making a ringtone for texts is one of the things I do… Help?
Neutralrobellie February 27, 2008
I’ve had this phone for a few months and really am satisfied with it. I don’t regret switching from Verizon at all. It’s true the phone lacks several features that may be critical to your purchasing decisions, but if freedom from a locked down provider is more important, then go with Helio. For a more detailed personal review from me, please go to http://www.macnwinblog.com
NeutralBatman March 22, 2008
I had an ocean.. loved the phone..
Service was very bad.. at store and at corporate..
It all started after I ported my number… after 4 months of dealing with idiots.. and lack of educational problems..
I gave up.. and went to at&t…
Neutralmass_inferno April 9, 2008
Do the new oceans use custom ringtones?
How do the speakers hold up i heard they blow out easily?
and does the key pad lock?
Thanx
NeutralDarren Dawes April 23, 2008
Have been trying to get a refund check for my returned device for 5 months. Four calls to their “service” center in the Philippines resulted in “we will send the check” two times (they didn’t) and then they told me that they had to charge it back to my credit card. I gave them a virgin debit card, that has never been used for any other transaction, before or since. 2 weeks later, someone in Russia used it to empty my bank account. Nice. Calling back, no one could connect me with someone in the US. I finally found the number for Helio’s corporate offices (310 445 7000–save it, you will need it) and spoke to “internal customer service”. This person has assured me that I will have a check in 7 to 10 days (I’ll believe it when I see it) and said that he could not do anything about the people in the foreign offices giving out personal info. He also stated that they had no internal security that could assist. Given that these guys will have your social security number too, I would NOT sign up with Helio even if they give you the service for $5 a month. This might be hard to believe, but I think their service is WORSE than what you’ve read on these pages. I believe that they, or their agents, or both, are actively engaged in fraud. Biggest mistake I’ve made in recent memory! No matter how poorly your current company is treating you, it’s not worth having your identity and savings stolen.
NeutralDaniel June 27, 2008
This site is amazing thanks for the EASY walk through on getting ringtones
+1Katie August 11, 2008
Find New, Used replacement phones at http://www.HelioCellular.com/H.....grade.html
-1