The developers of BitPim have rolled out a new version (v0.9.12) of their popular program which allows managing data on mobile phones. Included in this update is more support for the LG VX9900 (aka enV). The previous update only allowed minimal compatibility with the phone. However now, when setup properly, anyone can sync Phonebook, Calendar, Wallpaper, Ringtone, Memo, SMS and Call History data back and forth. We recommend this to add ringtones onto your phone since the only other method is to purchase them from Verizon’s V Cast store.

Also the increased enV support was not the only addition to the most recent update of BitPim. They also increased stability, bug fixes, added support pages, and re-organized the interface. (plus more improvements with the LG VX8600, LG VX8500, and LG VX5300) The program is entirely free (open source) and you can download a copy from the link below.

Download: bitpim-0.9.12-1-setup.exe
Links: BitPim.org | Supported Phones

P.S. Linux and Mac OS X version also available: download now

If you are looking for a decent phone with features such as a camera, bluetooth, music playback, microSD expansion, and navigator, the LG Chocolate (aka VX8500) is a great phone. The VX8500 has become quite popular over the last six months since many are purchasing it as a multi-functioning replacement for their iPod. The phone usually retails about $500 without any service and still costs over $99 with a new contract from Verizon Wireless stores. Amazon.com has pretty neat deal in which the phone’s final cost will be FREE after signing a new service contract and submitting a mail-in-rebate, which are usually trustworthy.

We do however feel that Verizon will be throwing out this phone in the coming months, so we don’t recommend purchasing this phone if you are some one who always wants the latest gadgets. We recently took a look at other phones, which we liked much better, such as the VX8600 (looks similar to the Chocolate, except in the form of a flip-phone) and the LG VX9900 (aka enV). Amazon.com is also offering large rebates on phones such as the LG enV and Motorola KRZR, which both will only cost $50 with a new service plan. No clue how long these offers will last so don’t wait if you want one.

Link: LG VX8500 (Chocolate)
Price: $75 (with contract) – $75 (rebate) = $0
Related: LG enV | Motorola K1m KRZR

As expected, Verizon Wireless has finally released the LG VX8600, becoming the first cell phone carrier in the U.S. to offer the phone. The LG Chocolate flip phone is intended for consumers who plan to listen to music on their phone and even features a MicroSD slot for extra storage. Although the phone may look like a rip off Motorola’s KRZR, LG had actually released the VX8600 overseas before Motorola even pushed out their phone. Anyways we hope LG has added something to make this phone better than the Moto KRZR, which we were quite disappointed with.

Verizon LG VX8600 Specs:

• Type: 1.9GHz CDMA and EV-DO
• Form Factor: Clamshell Flip Phone
• Dimensions: 3.89″ x 1.93″ x 0.58″ inches
• Weight / Battery: 3.26 oz / 3hrs40mins talktime
• Camera / Camcorder: 1.3 megapixels w/ zoom
• V Cast: music store, video content, 3D games
• MicroSD: store music, images, videos, etc.
• Bluetooth v1.1: stereo support for music
• Others: Mobile Web 2, Get It Now, VZ Navigator
• Special: Music-Only mode, External Touch Controls
• Price: $129 with a new 2 year contract

The phone will now be available in all Verizon Wireless stores and authorized retailers for a price of $129 with a new two-year contract and after a $50 mail-in-rebate. Current VZW customers, who are eligible for upgrade, can get an additional $100 off the phone, therefore costing only about $30 before adding taxes. We would recommend this phone over both the KRZR and the original Chocolate phones since it is cheaper than the KRZR, has more features, and has a standard flip phone form factor.

DEAL ALERT: FREE VX8600 w/ New Contract

Links: Verizon Wireless – VX8600 | Press Release
Related: Motorola KRZR Review