Siemens Opens Up Phone Tests, Blogs

Siemens has opened a beta test program for mobile phone enthusiasts to try out its latest upcoming models before they hit the streets. The company is currently preparing its M75 phone, due in June, which packs a 1.3-megapixel camera, MP3 player and multimedia card in a rugged, protective outer shell.

Siemens is taking a different approach to its tests than most companies; all feedback will be public. The company has joined the Web log craze and testers will post their opinions on a blogging platform that will be integrated into the Siemens Communications site.

Even after the phone is released, tester blogs will be referenced on the main product page in categories such as "Bug," "Idea" and "Hack."

Applications for Siemens beta tests are open the public, but only a small group will be selected. Those interested must register on the Siemens Communications site and submit a brief questionnaire.

Those chosen as Siemens mobile phone testers will receive a prototype unit that must be used for some weeks before being returned. Afterwards, Siemens will send all testers a final version of the phone free of charge.

Siemens isn't the only mobile phone maker hopping aboard the blog bandwagon. Nokia recently launched a product called Lifeblog, which runs on the PC and keeps a diary of notes and pictures taken on the run with a Nokia phone.