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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa - The flexibility of today's smartphones, and especially that of the Symbian operating system, has allowed developers and manufacturers to think outside the box, and present to the market solutions that were previously not possible; such is the case of the Zeemote JS1, a Bluetooth-connected joystick, which is mainly used to control games on mobile phones.
In the package
Zeemote has also developed a useful partnership with Gameloft, one of the largest mobile phone game developers in the world, so as to provide its consumers with compatible games, directly from its own website. In the review unit we received, one free game licence was offered.
The joystick will not replace the mobile phone keypad, as it only contains 4 keys and a thumbstick, but it should suffice for most games. It can be used together with the phone's numeric keypad, or by itself in most games, as previously stated.
As usual in Bluetooth accessories, there is a status light which informs the user of the device's condition. A blue light, shining at small intervals, indicates that the JS1 is properly connected; a blue and orange alternating light indicates that the joystick is ready for connection; while the orange light indicates low battery.
Unfortunately, a charger is not included in the package, and the JS1 comes with 2 AAA non-rechargable batteries, which will last "over 50 hours" as promoted by Zeemote.
Usability
Concerning the usability of the JS1, it seems that there are two keys that cannot be used at the same time with others; i.e. only two keys can be pressed at the same time, excluding the thumbstick. For example, one can place fingers on key A and C, but not on B; or one can place fingers on A and B, but not comfortably on C; while the Power button, behind the thumbstick, is the most difficult key to reach at all times.
The joystick presents a rubber-like material which allows one to have a good grip - essential to high-impact games! The thumbstick also develops the game-sense, as it reminds one of game consoles like the Sony PlayStation.
The keys themselves can be programmed to suit one's taste on the device control. It is not only the games that can be controlled, but the phone as a whole; this would be beneficial for presentations, for example.
The dimensions (95x41x22mm) and weight (57g) of the JS1 mean that it is possible to carry it seamlessly in one's pocket, or even hang it around the neck, as it has a lanyard cavity (the lanyard itself does not come in the package).
To improve
A dedicated charger and a non-removable battery would have guaranteed the controller a longer lifetime (than 50 hours), which would not only save recharging-time, but also one's money for batteries.
Another feature that could have saved not only the JS1's, but also the phone's battery, would be a wire-connection, although this would limit the number of phones which could use the the joystick.
As the joystick has less keys than what is need to play certain games, a two-hand controller could be the solution, with a support stand for the phone, although this new device would not be easy to carry around.
Zeemote JS1 marketing video
Conclusion
The Zeemote JS1 comes in a single colour combination (black and blue); its price is still being determined, as in most countries it is bundled with a mobile phone; and is compatible with most S60-powered phones, including the Nokia 5800 and the N97.
Advantages: Small and light (57g without batteries); comfortable use and excellent grip; compatible with most S60-based smartphones; large game repository available on manufacturer's website; four programmable buttons.
Disadvantages: non-rechargeable batteries which offer battery life of just over 50 hours.
Rating: 8.9/10
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Would be interesting to get reviews of playing different games with the Zeemote, doesn’t seem to be much info out there. I have the Storm and am looking to buy more games after buying the joystick a few days ago.
this product is lame i bought one and it sucks, don’t buy it.