There are other Web features on the Helio phones based on deals the company has made with providers. You can read the satirical news site the Onion, check on current news sorted by Google and use several functions provided by Yahoo, including driving directions, movie showtimes and weather updates.
But of course the distinguishing feature of the phone is MySpace. Kids might not want to leave home without it.
\o7David Colker can be reached at technopolis@latimes.com. Previous columns can be found at latimes.com/technopolis.
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\f7Hello, Helio
Helio has released two cellphones and a wireless service that can access a streamlined version of social networking site MySpace.
Helio
www.helio.com
Two phone models: The Hero, $275, can handle more video formats and has a better camera lens. The Kickflip, $250, forgoes some niceties but has a more innovative design. Wireless plans start at $40 a month.
Pros: Both phones do an admirable job of displaying MySpace while retaining the site's networking functions.
Cons: Mobile version of MySpace does not include several features of the full site, such as browse searching and audio.
Source: Times research
Los Angeles Times
