
Pros
What really strikes you about the 6500 classic is its lean form factor. Measuring just 9.5mm, it is the slimmest Nokia phone we've come across so far, even thinner than the 2630 (9.9mm) we reviewed recently. While it may not be as anorexic as the Samsung Ultra Edition 5.9, the prototype sample of the 6500 classic looks sleek and rests comfortably in the hand. We like that the anodized aluminum frame in the top-half of the phone gives it a solid feel, though some people may find the lower-half cover (that slides out for the battery and SIM card) a tad too plasticky. Like most sub-10mm cellulars, it should also fit easily in shirt pockets and small bags.

One of the key enhancements of the 6500 classic over the 6300 is the addition of 3G which now allows users to roam in places like Korea and Japan. The mobile sports an onboard music and video player for mobile entertainment and is equipped with a 24bit (16-million)-color QVGA (320 x 240-pixel) display. The 6500 classic also packs a handsfree speakerphone, Bluetooth, dual LED lights and is available in two colors (black and bronze).
Cons
Aside from not having a memory card slot, one of the gripes we have with the 6500 classic is the lack of a front-facing camera. As we don't as yet have an actual review unit, we're not sure if the main 2-megapixel camera can be used for video calls. In any case, not having a front-facing sensor means it will not be possible to conduct proper 3G video calls with another party.
While we like the idea of a standard microUSB port on the 6500 classic, providing just one port for charging, data connectivity and audio makes it impossible to multitask. You won't be able to charge a phone while listening to music. Nor can you synchronize the data on the phone while using the wired handsfree headset.
We also found the keypad hard to press at times, but this being a prototype unit, we'll reserve our final comments when we get hold of the commercial unit.
Bottomline
Despite its shortcomings, the 6500 classic is admittedly sleek and fairly well-equipped for such a slim phone. As to whether it can repeat the same success Nokia enjoyed with the 6300, we'll have to wait and see. Look out for our full review.
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