htc magic

The good:
The Google Ion (aka the HTC Magic) has a sleek, attractive design with a gorgeous display, tactile controls, and an easy-to-use interface. Features include stereo Bluetooth, seamless integration with Google apps, Wi-Fi, quick access to music and application downloads, and a broad degree of customization. Call quality is excellent and the 3G speeds are zippy.

The bad:
The Google Ion lacks full Outlook-syncing support and a standard 3.5mm headset jack. Video quality is uneven and the HTML browser interface could be refined. Camera-editing and personal-organizer options are slim, and the landscape keyboard isn't available in all applications.

The bottom line:
The Google Ion is the Android device for which we've been waiting. A few complaints remain, but its eye-catching design and interface, improved features, and satisfying performance make us excited about Android's full potential.

PSP slim

The good:
Lighter, slimmer, and sleeker update of the original PSP; AV output for video and game playback on TVs; improved load times for games; retains all of the impressive media and online features of the original PSP; deep lineup of great game titles that offer better graphics than Nintendo DS games.

The bad:
Despite improvements, problems and annoyances remain: UMD load times still poky compared to Flash-based DS games; volume levels still less than optimal; limited gameplay options via video output; USB charging option is cumbersome; screen is still too reflective and a magnet for fingerprints; subtle redesign missed the opportunity to add even more features.

The bottom line:
While it may not be a must-have upgrade for existing PSP owners, a host of subtle improvements make the latest Sony PSP (aka the PSP 2000) an even better deal for anyone looking for a solid portable gaming and multimedia device.