Android-powered phones currently litter the cellular market. In an attempt to distance itself from the masses, Samsung has created its own operating system known as the Bada. The vehicle chosen to present this new OS to the world is the Samsung S8500, aka the Wave. It provides an experience not quite like any other phone. The Wave is a mid-range phone, meaning that it falls somewhere above basic model devices and won’t fall outside the reach of too many budgets. Regardless of price, it is an incredibly fast performer, operating on a 1 GHz Hummingbird processor, which is a Samsung original like Bada and the Wave. This allows for almost unmatched connectivity and comes packaged in a sleek, attractive unit. The Wave measures only 108.9mm x 53.5mm x 10.9mm. It won’t feel as though you are wearing a weight set, as it is very light at 118g. The Wave’s Super Amoled screen instantly grabs the eye as it dominates the front of the phone. It’s most distinctive feature, the Wave’s screen spans a whopping 3.3 inches, which is reportedly the largest screen of its kind. Even more impressive than the size is the 800 x 480 pixel resolution and the amazing 16 million colors it supports. Efficiency is the name of the game for the front design, as it contains only three buttons in addition to the screen, which is the point. Still featuring Samsung’s TouchWiz overlay, the touch screen will be a welcome feature for those already familiar with Samsung’s other models. It may take some getting used to for new users, but it does not take long for the user to become oriented to its design. The touch screen is responsive without being irritatingly so. It is of course crucial to access the correct application when desired. Speaking of apps, some critics have pointed to the Wave’s relatively small app store. Fewer applications are to be expected for phones powered by a brand new OS. As more models are released that the Bada system supports, more apps will be possible. In fact, in addition to the ubiquitous Facebook and Twitter apps, there are thousands more awaiting approval. The Wave comes complete with two home screen modes that provide several options for all sorts of tastes. One mode supports numerous widgets on any of five provided home screens. The other mode is reminiscent of a basic menu that offers three additional screens. Facebook, Twitter, and email feature are found there. The Samsung Wave is a quite capable introduction and marketing tool of Samsung’s new Bada OS. Complete with so many fundamental features of smartphones and affordably priced, the Wave is sure to please any number of customers. It perfectly achieves all of the goals it sets.