This has to be one of the coolest devices I have ever gotten my hands on. As someone who has used BT headsets only once before, I have been impressed so far with the functionality and comfort these headphones provide. There are some drawbacks, but not many. In this review, I will attempt to describe in an accurate fashion the pros, cons, and support features of the X5i BT headset, from BlueAnt.

(IMPORTANT: You need the Widcomm BT stack for the X51v, found Here: http://www.aximsite.com/boards/x50-x51-forums/122247-widcomm-axim-x50v-x51v-state-development.html )

Here is the entire unit, as seen folded up:

 I. Basic Components:

In the package you would receive a Battery, a pair of foam covers for the headphones a Microphone, and a USB cable, Below you will notice that the Microphone attachment is inserted into the mini USB connection on the right-hand side. (it's on the underside of the right headphone pod, and not immediately visible) This is also the charging connector, the device does come with a power adapter, but can also be charged from a powered USB port.

 The Battery, seen above is a Lithium Ion Polymer battery. According to the manufacturer, it has a 200 hour standby time, and 12 hours of active audio, and/or voice mode. I have discovered that it takes about three hours to charge the battery, and I can use it for about 8 hours a day for between 4 and 5 consecutive days before it needs a charge.

II. Functionality, and Ease of Use:

As seen below, the unit can be folded for ease of transport, it is unfolded into wearable configuration as seen in the second image:

Once unfolded, it is worn in a behind the head style, as seen in the image below:

III Functions and Features:

The power button must be held in to power the unit on,  the light will flash blue, and a tone sound, indicating a successful power-up. Also, once the battery reaches a critical level, the light will blink red, and a tone sound every 10 seconds until the unit is is powered down or plugged in. There are four buttons on the right side speaker pod, as shown below with the descriptions beside them:

One thing to note is that music will be heard only at line-level, so the volume controls on the device itself will not work, you will need to use the controls on the unit itself. Also, if the microphone is not inserted the unit will function like an ordinary set of Bluetooth headphones. (Just don't connect it to a cell phone)

Here is a full Spec. Sheet:

IV Conclusion:

Here are some pros and cons and a final look:

Pros: Ease of Use, Simple Layout, Long talk time/Standby time, Multiple device connectivity, and Comfortable fit (Makes for a keen set of earwarmers!)

Cons: Can glitch out, and must be reset (Remove battery, wait 30 seconds, reinsert) Microphone stalk must be removed in order to charge up.

In conclusion this unit, while not perfect, is a great deal better than other, more expensive units out there, I purchased mine for about $59.99, but the MSRP is around $79.99, you can find a seller Here: http://www.mobilecityonline.com/wireless/store/productdetail.asp?productid=22301

Final Verdict: X5i Bluetooth Headset from BlueAnt = 8.8 out of 10

(This Device was tested using a Dell Axim X51v Pocket PC with the Widcomm BT stack installed along with a Samsung SGH-T809 Cellular Phone)

Have Fun!

Unit ZER0