The mobile network fared poorly when accessing PC World. When TD-SCDMA doesn't get a clear signal, it defaults to the 2.5G EDGE network. What took seconds on my PC required about two minutes on the phone when it defaulted to the EDGE network. Clearly low-graphics Web sites will fare better for heavy users.

In Beijing's business district, the "T" flashed up, indicating that TD-SCDMA service was available. However, the results were on-par with the EDGE network. It took well over two minutes for that PC World's site to load. On the positive side, call quality was good throughout.

This emerged as TD-SCDMA's greatest challenge -- finding a signal. During a ride from northeast Beijing south along the Third Ring Road, which cuts through the city's most important commercial area, the "T" never appeared once. The world's largest operator is apparently not overexerting itself to give the capital full coverage.

Chinese handset manufacturer 's TD290 is also a candybar-style handset with GSM support. It has a smaller screen, measuring only 2.1 inches. It too uses a stylus, but its touchscreen has greater accuracy than Samsung's. Its camera takes photos up to 1600 X 1200 resolution, also storing to a micro SD card.

The Longcheer design is somewhat flimsy. The USIM card seemed barely held in by its holder and the battery, alternately indicating that the card was or wasn't inside.