Verizon's 4G Thunderbolt phone handles multiple tasks

Verizon's first 4G phone has arrived.

Why should you care• Well, this phone, the HTC Thunderbolt, is the first phone in the Verizon lineup that's capable of making use of the company's new 4G network. That translates to true broadband speeds over the air. It means true video call capabilities, and it also means that it's now possible to use both Internet and telephone functionality at the same time.

Well, only for some people, for now. The 4G network currently is confined to major cities, but will be available to a wider audience soon.

Even though you may not be able to enjoy the full power of Verizon's new superphone, there are still quite a few compelling reasons to purchase the HTC Thunderbolt.

For one, the screen is huge -- 4.3 inches, and has a stunning clarity. For another, it packs some punch, featuring a 1GHZ second-generation Snapdragon processor backed up by 768 megs of RAM. It also packs dual cameras -- front and back -- one is an 8 megapixel lens that can also capture HD video. The other, front-facing lens, can be used to take pictures as well, but is best used as a webcam and for making video calls.

The Thunderbolt features Android 2.3 (Froyo) as with other Android phones, and the performance is stunning. I haven't been able to bog the Thunderbolt down despite throwing games, multiple programs, and heavy Internet use at it.

As for look and feel, the phone feels solid. Many critiqued the HTC Incredible for its excessive use of plastic, but the Thunderbolt feels solid, with a dark gray case with chrome accents, and the rear of the phone has a rubberized back and, somewhat uniquely, a stand that can be used to perch the phone up to watch movies and the like.

It should be noted that the Thunderbolt has a certain heft to it -- nothing unpleasant, but if you're used to a lighter device, it might be of concern.

Without 4G in your area, the HTC Thunderbolt is an excellent business or multimedia phone. The mix of capability and size make it a strong contender.

In areas that offer 4G service, I would say that it's probably the best on the market ... there are only a handful of 4G devices from other companies available, and the Thunderbolt is the only Verizon phone that can take advantage of those capabilities right now.