Archos 7: browse the Web just as you would on your PC. Really?
There is a lot of buzz in the market around how the iPhone has changed the game by offering a true internet experience through a mobile device. However, there are other players in the market that are trying to offer a similar (or even better) alternative to the iPhone. Archos 7 is one of them.
I haven't used the device yet, but 2 differentials from the iPhone (or iPod Touch) caught my attention: it offers a 7 inches screen (compared to the iPhone's 4.5) and it has Adobe Flash 9 video support.
This is an exerpt from the description at Amazon:
With an 800-pixels-wide resolution and a 7-inch screen, you can browse the Web just as you would on your PC--no need to zoom in and out, the web pages are fully displayed on the Archos screen. Plus, with Adobe Flash 9 video support, you can natively browse video-sharing websites, such as Dailymotion and YouTube. The Archos IMTs boast enough processing power to surf the Web on the go, giving you the same browsing experience as your laptop. No more endless waiting for the page to load; just grab your Archos 7 and check the latest news right away. Your PC wouldn't have even finished booting up by the time you've put the Archos back in your bag. Once connected to a Wi-Fi or 3.5G network, the included email software lets you to stay in touch no matter where you are. Check your email (compatible with POP/IMAP) whenever you want, view or send attachments (only compatible formats), and store them.
With decent 160Gb or 320Gb storage options, Archos 7 is currently available at Amazon for USD $399,00 USD $525.25 respectively. Average customer reviews at Amazon is currently at 3.5 stars, with negative comments around customer service, device freezing and pricing. There are, of course, many positive reviews as well.
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The question that comes to mind is: with USD $399 you can buy a very decent netbook (like this one), and the iPod Touch goes for USD $219. Anyone seeing the real value for this guy?