Verizon's latest cell phone innovation, Chocolate, is much more than just a cell phone. Their advertisement is simple. "Part MP3 player. Part phone. Totally sweet." The device allows the user to make phone calls, browse the web, play music, take pictures, keep a schedule and so much more.



Right now, Chocolate sells for 149.99 after a 50 dollar rebate. At first it was only available on Verizon's website, but on August 7 it was made available at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and Circuit City stores with Verizon stores in them. The $149 will buy simply the phone with a new 2-year activation.

There are bundle packages available for more money which include music essential kits, car chargers, cases, and memory cards. They have a new 2-year activation also. Of course, there are the usual calling plan fees and early termination fees that are associated with most phones.

Chocolate is sleek and slim with a face that looks similar to an iPod's with its circular scroll pad. It has the ability to store up to 1000 songs that can be downloaded wirelessly through Verizon's VCAST Music online store or from Verizon Wireless' broadband music network. Users can also use the music in their existing MP3 libraries on Chocolate, a very attractive feature for those who have already amassed thousands of songs in their libraries.

Another great feature that Chocolate offers is a downloadable navigation system. The VZ Navigator uses GPS positioning to get directions and tell a traveler exactly where he's at. Directions to landmarks, restaurants and ATM's are right at user's fingertips.

Chocolate offers a wide variety of features. Here are just a few of the features that stand out:

-Instant Messaging

-Web browsing

-1.3 mega pixel camera or camcorder

-Records up to one hour of video

-2x digital zoom

-Self timer for the camera - 3, 5, or 10 seconds long

-Video player

-Downloadable ring tones, games, and wallpapers

-Bluetooth capable

-Voice memo recording

-12 ring tones

-Vibrate and silent modes

-Web-based e-mail

-Calendar

-Scheduler

-Alarm clock

-Notepad

-Calculator

-500 contact address book

Oh, and let's not forget that it is a cell phone. Its slim touch keypad slides out from inside the device to allow users to make calls on Verizon's very capable network. Chocolate seems as if it is worth looking into.