I have a preference for slider phones. The Motorola Z9 is similar to the Motorola RAZR2 clam shell flip phone. There are some significant differences in the two cell phones. In the UK the Z9 is sold as a 3G phone, but in the US the Z9 uses AT&T, not a 3G player yet.

So, the Z9 is a quad-band cell phone that is jammed with applications, Opera browser, voice commands, 2.0 digital camera, image messaging and supports GPS. I am completely satisfied with the Motorola Z9. After signing a new contract with AT&T, going through the mail-in drill and other gimmicks, the Z9 was free.

Features:

The Z9 is a tightly designed slider phone. It's not in the least bit flimsy. It literally never gets hung up. The keys are spaced nicely on the keypad. There is a slight nub effect on the keys. I don't find the nub feature that helpful, but after a while I was able to get into a messaging flow.

The 2 megapixel camera does a descent job taking still and video images. There are no advanced settings for focus and white balance. It is capable of sending video messaging and I would say the quality is good. The response time on the camera is excellent. If you see something on the road, you will not lose a shot.

The feature I appreciate is voice commands. I can make voice commands for my wife, the school principal and my substitute to be called. The phone recognizes the command and the next thing I know I am on the phone with one of them. Usually, it is to explain why I am not where I am supposed to be or to make arrangements to be gone.

The TFT LCD display is exceptionally brilliant and the menu and icons are easy to navigate. The main controls are strategically set in a manner wherein I can do everything with one hand. I also like the Bluetooth capability, so that while I am on the road or doing some unrelated task, I can be hands-free.

If I want to access the Web, the Opera browser does a great job directing searches. I am perfectly happy with the Motorola suite of software applications. The applications do take up some of the 51 MB internal memory. The saving feature is the 8 GB SD slot capacity. Included in my phone purchase was a free 1 GB memory card. In addition, I received a USB cable for the 2.0 USB port and a recharger.

The plan I chose was the unlimited calling and no roaming charges. I had a nightmare experience with another carrier wherein my roaming charges cost me more than $200 one month. I was on a field trip with students and unbeknown to me the doggone plan wasn't nationwide.

In a nutshell, if you are looking for a really good slider phone with great features, the Motorola Z9 is for you. I recommend it without reservation. So far-so good with AT&T. I will update this review, if something noteworthy comes up.