Well, there is a difference here.

If you buy a piece of computer hardware that requires software, or a digital
audio player, etc., the software comes with it, not an extra charge.

Same thing with most cell phones, the software for connecting to the
computer comes with it.

So it is unusual that Motorola is charging extra for the software in this
case, for an expensive phone at that!

Nothing as such, but the thing is that Motorola used to include the
software & data cable into the phone package with its earlier models
(e.g. the Timeports came with 2 software CDs, data cable, hands free
kit). None of that was free, the cost was included in the price of the
phone as quoted.

Recently they've started to exclude accessories from the phone package
which used to be included with earlier models. Some of the accessories
are vital for using certain functions of the phones, the data cable and
software being the prime example. Instead they put an advertising leaflet
urging you to buy these accessories extra. You're practically forced to
buy them if you want to make full use of your phone.

This is a hidden price rise, a clever marketing trick. The actual cost of
the phone with all its features is the quoted price of the starter kit +
software + data cable (+ hands free kit really). The practice isn't
illegal, but of questionable ethics. Yes I know, other companies do the
same. That's not an excuse.

Regards

I do wonder where the analogy that "NOKIA gives the software" has any
bearing on the matter. Some cars have LCD TVs built in as standard. Some
have GPS tracking . But becuase one product comes with these features as
included, in no way means that every other similar product should come with
these options. It is fair trade. If you want the software for free then you
buy the NOKIA. But obviously you liked the Motorola v600 better? You made a
conscious decision to buy "The Other Brand" based on features and benefits
Also comparing the software that came with earlier Timport L and T series
isnt really a fair analogy. Those programs were not even close to the
features and complexity of Mobile Phone Tools. Also, the industry and
technology was completely different then., And as we all know, (at least
those that had those phones) the Tru Synch software that came with that
phone SUCKED, as is widely claimed, not just my opinion. This is a 3rd Party
Program made by BVRP. Someone has to pay them for it. Which means you the
consumer, either in the price of the box, or as an accs.

Another thing, I bet if you ;look at the percentages, the amount of Mobile
Phone users that know of or actual use, a data cable and connectivity
software is less then 10% of usrs. Probably less then 5%. I owned 2 wireless
stores and was in the business for over 17 years, I feel savvy enough to
makle that claim

But, in closing, I still like Peters answer. While he is not happy about
having to pay, he does. Why, becuase thats the way it is. If this country
starts runnning on the "I dont agree with the price so I will steal it, We
get anarchy. "

What are you saying?

You have a demo version, and you are asking for someone who paid for it to
send you their registration info, so you can get it for free? Fat chance.

I wrote that it is unusual that Motorola charges for it, that usually such
software comes with such devices. However, it is their choice whether they
charge extra for it or not. There is no "should" in this case.

Someone who paid the money for it themselves, is not likely to send you
their registration info, so that you can use it for free with their name and
reg key, breaking the law. (And how would they know you are not software
police, and they would get arrested for sending you that info?)

Whether or not you think that Motorola "should" provide the software with
the phone, the fact is that they don't. If you want it you'll have to pay
for it, that simple.

I don't know--but it's possible that if you search with price comparison
places, you could find the software at a lower price than buying it from
Motorola.