Design
The phone features a sleek clamshell design with a 98 x 67 color display with 4096 colors. Most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button on the handset's control pad. There's also a standard jack to accept universal hands-free headsets.

Calling Features
The V171's built-in address book that can store up to 250 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and other contact information. The phone also comes with built-in polyphonic ringtones (20 of them!), and there's even a built-in composer so you can fashion your own ringtones. A silent vibrate mode is available, too, for times when you want to keep things discreet. And perhaps most importantly, the integrated airtime balance display shows you how much airtime you've used and how much is left, allowing you to keep an eye on your minutes.

Messaging
The V171 covers the messaging basics with support for sending and receiving messages that contain text and graphics. The phone also supports instant messaging. iTap text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile text messaging users.

Tools and Entertainment
In addition to offering customizable ringtones and graphics, the V171 ships with three games to keep you entertained while you're on the go. Plus, a calculator with a currency converter, as well as an alarm and stopwatch, are included.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola V171 weighs 3.14 ounces and measures 3.43 x 1.80 x .93 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 450 minutes of digital talk time, and up to 300 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the GSM 850/1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.