Well, the HFL via Bluetooth is definitely a cool idea. Unfortunately - unless I'm missing something - it's a step backwards in convenience. The implementation of the Phone book is nearly useless.

I had assumed the ability to say a name and have the HFL dial the number. Having to listen to the full list of names is not only less than helpful, it's a nuisance. The only way around that is to state the number directly. But that brings us back to the reason for having a phone book. I'm lousy at remembering all those phone numbers.

Also, it seems that there is no way to intitiate a call with the phone and transfer it to the TL HFL (in order to use the phone's phone book). Anybody figure out how to do that?

There is also nothing in the way of aids for voice mail or stored codes, etc. I need this frequently.

Then, of course, there's the distortion and crackling with the T616.

It will certainly be convenient receiving calls via the HFL (although I'd like to see the name rather than just the number). But placing calls will be painful.

Hopefully, this is all software based and we'll see some significant upgrades in the near future. Otherwise, imo, this will go the way of the other talking car features of the 80's (remember "lights are on" and "door is ajar" on the Maxima).

If I'm missing something here, please educate me. And go easy on the flames.

 

I have mine set up to where all you have to do is say the name. Read the manual and it goes into detail how to do it.


RB

 

Yoy can say a name and it will dial the number for you.

 

Thanks! I reviewed the manual again and realized that I had been referencing the phone book section only. Calling by name will be very useful. I'm glad I asked!

Now if I can just figure out what to do about the T616's poor reception!

 

Let's wish the future technology will allow us to use our cellular's phonebook directly...



Happy Holidays.

 

Maybe it is just your service provider, or a bad phone because I have the T616 and it is clear as a bell and the recetion is just fine.

Also you mentioned transfering a call, and it does this as well from the car to the phone and vice versa. Read your manual more and you will see how these features work.

 

The more I read about people's interest in the Bluetooth technology makes me wonder if I should jump ship to AT&T GSM and get a BT phone.

Then I remember the CRAPPY GSM network here in the SF Bay Area and the great TDMA plan I have with AT&T and I am satisfied with not being able to use the BT technology.

Maybe in a year or two when my contract expires, AT&T will offer better plans for their GSM customers. 8pm nights is too good to give up.

 

I have the T616 and my reception is very good (GSM Cingular in Houston.) Must be your cellular service provider.

Oh, by the way, I find that I can significantly improve the reception/signal strength of my T616 in fringe areas by placing it as high as possible in my TL - i.e. between the visor and the roof.

 

Lore- you can have AT&T transfer your TDMA phone number to a GSM account, which you can try risk free (this is what I did). In my area, GSM coverage was as good, if not better than TDMA.

AT&T is investing heavily in GSM, so coverage may be better than when you last tried it.

If not, you can transfer the phone number back to a TDMA account.