View source for T-Mobile Sidekick

{{short description|Smartphones produced by Danger and T-Mobile}}
{{Infobox Mobile phone
| name = Danger Hiptop / T-Mobile Sidekick
| logo = [[File:Danger hiptop logo.svg|frameless|Danger Hiptop logo|150px]]<br /><div style="margin-top:5px">
[[File:T-Mobile Sidekick logo alone.svg|frameless|T-Mobile Sidekick logo|150px]]</div>
| image = Sidekick III vs Sidekick II (6292006).jpg
| caption = A Sidekick II (lower) and its successor Sidekick 3 (upper)
| manufacturer = {{plainlist|
* [[Danger, Inc.|Danger Incorporated]]
* [[Flextronics]]
* [[Sharp Corporation]]
* [[Motorola]]
}}
| type = [[Smartphone]]<br />Internet communicator
| available = 
| screen = 
| size = 
| weight = 
| operatingsystem = {{plainlist|
* Danger OS
* [[NetBSD]]<ref name="sidekick">{{cite web|url=http://www.hiptop3.com/archives/sidekick-lx-2009-blade-will-run-netbsd/|title=Sidekick LX 2009 / Blade Will Run NetBSD|date=30 January 2009|work=www.hiptop3.com|access-date=5 February 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090317022256/http://www.hiptop3.com/archives/sidekick-lx-2009-blade-will-run-netbsd/|archive-date=2009-03-17|url-status=dead}}</ref>
}}
| input = 
| cpu = 
| ringtone = 
| memory = 
| memory_card = 
| networks = [[General Packet Radio Service|GPRS]], [[Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution|EDGE]], [[Universal Mobile Telecommunications System|UMTS]], [[3G]]
| battery = 
| connectivity = 
| form = [[Swivel]]
| series = 
| successor = [[Microsoft Kin]]<br />T-Mobile Sidekick 4G
| status = 
| brand = {{plainlist|
* Danger Inc.
* T-Mobile
}}
| released = 2002
| discontinued = {{end date|2010|7|2}}
| developer = 
}}

The '''Danger Hiptop''' (stylized '''hiptop'''), also branded and sold as '''T-Mobile Sidekick''', is a mobile [[smartphone]] and communicator series that was produced by [[Danger, Inc.]] from 2002 to 2010,<ref name="Important Sidekick Announcement">{{cite web |date=2010-07-01 |title=Important Sidekick Announcement |url=http://forums.t-mobile.com/t5/Sidekick-LX-2009/Important-Sidekick-Announcement/td-p/408476 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100708230244/http://forums.t-mobile.com/t5/Sidekick-LX-2009/Important-Sidekick-Announcement/td-p/408476 |archive-date=2010-07-08 |access-date=2 July 2010 |work=T-Mobile Community |publisher=T-Mobile}}</ref><ref name="Important Danger Service Update">{{cite web |date=2011-02-28 |title=Important Danger Service Update |url=http://forums.t-mobile.com/t5/Sidekick-Lounge/Important-Danger-Service-Update/td-p/760511 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110307041024/http://forums.t-mobile.com/t5/Sidekick-Lounge/Important-Danger-Service-Update/td-p/760511 |archive-date=2011-03-07 |access-date=2 March 2011 |work=T-Mobile Community |publisher=T-Mobile}}</ref> developed in close partnership with [[T-Mobile US]] and with most models manufactured by [[Sharp Corporation]]. The Hiptops were designed to be held horizontally with both hands, allowing typing with two thumbs on a [[QWERTY]] keyboard that is revealed by a 'flip out' display rotating 180 degrees on a hinge pin (with the exception of one model, Hiptop Slide). They ran on a [[Cloud computing|cloud]]-based, [[Java (programming language)|Java]]-made software synchronizing with back-end services provided and maintained by Danger, holding personal data and offering services such as [[email]], [[instant messaging]], and a catalog of downloadable apps.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Some Sidekick users report data has been restored |url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/1559726/some-sidekick-users-report-data-has-been-restored.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Computerworld |language=en}}</ref>

Danger, Inc. was cofounded by [[Andy Rubin]], who would become the author of [[Android (operating system)|Android]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peter |title=Flashback: Kin - Android's homely cousin dies twice at the hands of Microsoft and Verizon |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/flashback_androids_homely_cousin_dies_twice_at_the_hands_of_microsoft_and_verizon-news-44863.php |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=GSMArena.com |language=en-US}}</ref> The original Hiptop was released on October 1, 2002, manufactured by [[Flextronics]]. Described at the time as a "[[Personal digital assistant|PDA]] phone",<ref>{{Cite web |title=E-Plus to bring Danger Hiptop to Europe |url=https://www.theregister.com/2003/10/21/eplus_to_bring_danger_hiptop/ |website=The Register}}</ref> it was notable for combining a [[cell phone]] with a full [[HTML]] supporting web browser, integrated [[AOL Instant Messenger]], a keyboard and a navigation scroll wheel, running on the [[GSM]] and [[GPRS]] cell network of T-Mobile.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile to launch Sidekick device |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/t-mobile-to-launch-sidekick-device/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2002-10-02 |title=Tragically hip: the T-Mobile Sidekick |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna3078311 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=NBC News |language=en}}</ref> The second generation Hiptop/Sidekick debuted in 2004, manufactured by Sharp, with a slimmer design and the addition of a [[VGA resolution|VGA]] camera. This was followed by the third generation in 2006 which replaced the scroll wheel with a [[trackball]] and added a music player, [[Bluetooth]], and faster [[EDGE (telecommunication)|EDGE]] data.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick retrospective (photos) |url=https://www.cnet.com/pictures/t-mobile-sidekick-retrospective-photos/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=CNET |language=en}}</ref> The line diversified in 2007 with the Sidekick iD, billed as a budget-friendly model with cut features, as well as the Sidekick Slide, a model manufactured by [[Motorola]] and with a [[Slider phone|slide]] design instead of a swiveling screen. The fourth generation top model was the Sidekick LX, increasing the display size to 3.0 inches, and this was followed by the Sidekick 2008 and the final model, Sidekick LX 2009, with numerous hardware upgrades including [[3G]] connectivity and [[social networking]] software integration - this one was later also sold as the Mobiflip or the Sharp Jump, with modified software and not using Danger's data services.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-02-28 |title=T-Mobile's Sidekicks |url=https://uk.pcmag.com/mobile-phones/49632/t-mobiles-sidekicks |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=PCMag UK |language=en-gb}}</ref>

The Hiptop/Sidekick became popular especially among young consumers, unlike similar devices during its early years, namely [[Palm (PDA)|Palm]] and [[BlackBerry]], which found more business success.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2003-01-17 |title=Smart mobile offers web to go |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/2665869.stm |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en-GB}}</ref> Danger, Inc. was purchased by [[Microsoft]] for $500 million in 2008,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2008/02/11/meanwhile-microsoft-buys-danger/|title=Meanwhile, Microsoft Buys Danger for $500 Million|date=11 February 2008 }}</ref> who used the technology to build the ill-fated [[Microsoft Kin]]. Danger's cloud services were shut down on May 31, 2011, ending the Hiptop/Sidekick data services after almost nine years in operation.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=2011-03-01 |title=RIP, Danger, 2002 - 2011: Microsoft axing service on May 31st, T-Mobile promises an 'easy transition' |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/03/01/rip-danger-2002-2011-microsoft-axing-service-on-may-31st-t/ |access-date=2011-06-01 |publisher=Engadget}}</ref> The Sidekick was revived later that year in the form of a [[4G]] device running [[Android Froyo|Android 2.2 Froyo]], manufactured by [[Samsung Electronics|Samsung]], using a similar form factor to the originals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumparak |first=Greg |date=2011-03-15 |title=A Legacy Lives On: T-Mobile Sidekick Reborn As The Android-Powered Sidekick 4G |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/03/14/a-legacy-lives-on-t-mobile-sidekick-reborn-as-the-android-powered-sidekick-4g/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> The Sidekick became incredibly popular in the U.S., at its peak receiving much attention in American pop culture<ref>{{Cite web |last=Corry |first=Kristin |date=2022-03-10 |title=The Sidekick Was Pop Culture's Most Stylish and Innovative Cellphone |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-tmobile-sidekick-was-pop-cultures-most-stylish-and-innovative-cellphone/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=VICE |language=en-US}}</ref> and now considered to be iconic.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.geekwire.com/2011/hiptop-sidekick-android/|title=From Danger to Android: The saga of the T-Mobile Sidekick|date=27 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tmonews.com/2014/08/throwback-thursday-original-sidekick-phone-review-video/|title = Original Sidekick retro phone review &#91;video&#93;}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/2467963/smartphones/microsoft-kills-the-sidekick--the-first-smart-phone-is-dead.html|title = Microsoft kills the Sidekick. The first smart phone is dead|date = 11 October 2009}}</ref> Some models were also marketed, to lesser success, in Canada (by [[Fido (wireless carrier)|Fido]]/[[Rogers Wireless|Rogers]]),<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sidekick data recovered, says Microsoft |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/sidekick-data-recovered-says-microsoft-1.843142 |website=CBC News}}</ref> Australia (by [[Telstra]]), Singapore<ref name=":1">{{cite web |date=May 17, 2004 |title=StarHub Brings 'hiptop' to Asia |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-94655661.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106013910/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-94655661.html |archive-date=November 6, 2012 |publisher=Wireless News}}</ref> and a number of European countries.

== Typical features ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=June 2025}}
[[File:Danger Hiptop 1 - 5004528875.jpg|thumb|The original Hiptop while closed, showing the Menu and Jump buttons on the left exterior|left]]
The line-by-line scrolling feature is notable to the Hiptop brand of products and is not a feature of most other multi-function cell phones. The line-by-line (ability to scroll one line at a time rather than just page by page) scrolling feature is consistent in all applications, as are the "Jump" and all other hardware buttons.
[[File:Sidekick 3!.jpg|thumb|The Hiptops were designed to be held with both hands in landscape (shown here: T-Mobile Sidekick 3)]]
There are two buttons on the left side of the device ("menu" and "jump") and also two on the right ("back" and "cancel"). On all Hiptops except the original, the left side houses a directional pad and on the right, a track ball. The Hiptop 2 and Slide's directional pad contains internal multicolored LEDs used in ringers and notifications, while the 3, 2008, LX, and 2009 track ball contains internal multicolored LEDs that provide the same function. The right side also has two phone buttons: send call (also page-down) and end call (also page-up).  The top of the unit has two application-specific shoulder buttons.  The bottom has volume controls and a power button.

Another important feature of the Hiptop is the ability to easily view the screen even without a backlight. All units until the LX model had this feature. Most other manufacturers utilized an LCD screen that was not visible without backlight. Hiptop and [[Palm Treo]] units ([[Treo 600]] and later) utilized a [[transflective liquid crystal display]] that worked with and without the backlight, making the IM, mail, and all other messages readable even in bright sunlight, and without picking the unit up.

{{Clear}}

== Model releases ==
=== hiptop/T-Mobile Sidekick (Flextronics) ===
[[Image:Color sidekick.jpg|thumb|right|T-Mobile Color Sidekick]]
The original Hiptop was made official on September 6, 2001,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Danger unveils the first "Hiptop" wireless Internet service and device at DEMOmobile 2001 |url=https://www.tech-insider.org/mobile/research/2001/0906-a.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=www.tech-insider.org}}</ref> and was released on October 1, 2002, sold by [[T-Mobile US|T-Mobile]] in the United States, initial price was $200 and then $40 per month.<ref>Baig, Edward C. (October 1, 2002). "[https://www.newspapers.com/image/204766427/ Hip Sidekick poses challenge to handheld communicators]". ''Lansing State Journal'' (Lansing, Michigan, USA). p. 3D.</ref> A later revision of the Hiptop upgraded its screen from a monochrome LCD to a 65,000 color LCD. This version was released on June 6, 2003 by T-Mobile for a price of $299.99.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T‑Mobile Introduces Award Winning Color T‑Mobile Sidekick™ |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-introduces-award-winning-color-t-mobile-sidekick |website=T-Mobile US}}</ref>

From the beginning, Hiptops have featured "Menu", "Back", "Jump" and other keys accessible even when the unit was closed. The Hiptop also featured a speaker which is used for device sounds but not telephone. Along the top edge of the phone [[bezel (screen)|bezel]] is an [[infrared]] transceiver. Although Danger stated that the infrared port would come to use in the future for data transmission (i.e. [[IrDA]]), this never occurred and the port remained without purpose, and was not included at all in future Sidekicks.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Short |first=Chris |date=2004-09-23 |title=T-Mobile Sidekick II Review |url=https://chrisshort.net/t-mobile-sidekick-ii-review/ |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=Chris Short |language=en}}</ref> The headset jack serves a dual purpose, as it is also used for an optional accessory camera.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Team |first=PhoneArena |date=2003-09-27 |title=Danger HipTop |url=https://www.phonearena.com/news/Danger-HipTop_id6 |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=PhoneArena |language=en-US}}</ref>

[[SunCom]] and [[Edge Wireless]] used to sell the device in some parts of the United States. [[Microcell Telecommunications|Fido]] was the exclusive Hiptop carrier in [[Canada]] and released it in August 2003.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2003-09-13 |title=Big is the new small |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/big-is-the-new-small/article22732546/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}</ref> In [[Germany]], the Hiptop service was also offered from 2003 by [[E-Plus (operator)|E-Plus]] which included a flat rate tariff. The Hiptop was also sold in [[Singapore]] by [[Starhub]] in 2004.<ref name=":1" />

=== hiptop<sup>2</sup>/T-Mobile Sidekick II (Sharp) ===
[[Image:SidekickII.jpg|thumb|right|T-Mobile Sidekick II]]
Announced on August 9, 2004,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2004-08-09 |title=Danger updates Sidekick {{!}} RCR Wireless News |url=https://www.rcrwireless.com/20040809/archived-articles/danger-updates-sidekick |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en-US}}</ref> and released on September 22, 2004 by T-Mobile US,<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |title=America Flips its Lid for the T-Mobile Sidekick II - T-Mobile Newsroom |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/america-flips-its-lid-for-the-t-mobile-sidekick-ii |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004175734/https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/america-flips-its-lid-for-the-t-mobile-sidekick-ii |archive-date=2024-10-04 |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=T-Mobile Newsroom |language=en-US |url-status=live }}</ref> the Hiptop 2 (stylized hiptop<sup>2</sup>) was the first to be manufactured by [[Sharp Corporation|Sharp]]. Compared to the first generation, the new model moved the D-Pad (directional-pad), previously found on the inside, to the left hand side of the device,<ref name=":2" /> while shoulder dials, volume and power buttons were on the outside edges.<ref name=":2" /> The Hiptop2 also features an integrated VGA camera and a speakerphone at the rear of the unit.<ref name=":2" /> Also was the addition of page-up/page-down buttons on the top and bottom of its scroll wheel.

In Canada, the Danger Hiptop2 launched on March 8, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MICROCELL MEDIA & NEWS |url=http://www.microcell.ca/EN/04/index.asp?id=04&sid=01&contentID=4218 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050311042848/http://www.microcell.ca/EN/04/index.asp?id=04&sid=01&contentID=4218 |archive-date=2005-03-11 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=www.microcell.ca}}</ref> The Hiptop2 launched in Germany on March 10, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick II Launched in Germany - Forbes.com |url=https://www.forbes.com/feeds/wireless/2005/06/03/wirelessm2c_2005_06_02_tww_0000-0213-tww_200506021219291.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=www.forbes.com}}</ref> It was later launched in Austria in October 2005 and Great Britain in November 2005.<ref>{{Cite news |title=T-Mobile brings Sidekick II to UK |url=https://www.theregister.com/2005/11/17/t-mobile_danger_sidekick/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803042208/https://www.theregister.com/2005/11/17/t-mobile_danger_sidekick/ |archive-date=2024-08-03 |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 9, 2006, the Australian Hiptop2 was released through [[Telstra]].  The Australian version is practically the same as the Sidekick II in the U.S. but re-constructed for the Australian audience{{snd}} it has [[MSN Messenger]] built-in as the default messenger and [[Yahoo! Messenger]] which is downloadable from the catalog (the US version has Yahoo and [[AOL Instant Messenger]]).

==== Limited edition ====
There are also two limited edition variants of the T-Mobile USA Sidekick II: [[Juicy Couture]] Edition (Pink) and [[Mister Cartoon]] Edition (Black).  These are different case colors with the same hardware and operating systems.

=== hiptop<sup>3</sup>/T-Mobile Sidekick 3 (Sharp) ===
[[Image:Sidekick3.gif|thumb|T-Mobile Sidekick 3|left]]
Announced in June 2006 and released July 10, 2006 in the US, with a later release in Europe,<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick 3 Preview - Mobile Gazette - Mobile Phone News |url=https://mobilegazette.com/t-mobile-sidekick-3-06x06x09.htm |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=mobilegazette.com}}</ref> the Hiptop 3 (stylized hiptop<sup>3</sup>) manufactured by Sharp was 20% physically smaller than its predecessor.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news |title=T-Mobile Sidekick 3 Available to "Kick-Start" the Summer - T-Mobile Newsroom |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-sidekick-3-available-to-kick-start-the-summer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806164805/https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-sidekick-3-available-to-kick-start-the-summer |archive-date=2024-08-06 |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=T-Mobile Newsroom |language=en-US |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[industrial design]] was changed as well as a new color scheme to a dark gray shell with silver trim and gloss black buttons. The scroll wheel was replaced by a multicolor LED-lit six-direction [[trackball]] replacing the D-pad as the indicator light.<ref name=":4" /> The keyboard was also changed to a rigid plastic keyboard differing from the rubber keyboard of previous models known to peel away from the unit.

All software features, including the line-by-line scroll feature were retained from the previous model. Software remained basically the same, but with the addition of more applications.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick 3 |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,1977966,00.asp}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick review: T-Mobile Sidekick |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/T_Mobile_Sidekick_3/4505-6452_7-31920316.html#reviewPage1}}</ref> This included [[MP3]] playback software, allowing the playback of MP3, WAV and AAC format audio files from the built-in storage. A [[Bluetooth]] module was also added as well as an upgrade of the cellular modem to support faster [[EDGE (telecommunication)|EDGE]] data speeds.<ref name=":4" />

Other new features include a removable 3.7v 1500 mAh battery, a [[miniSD]] slot capable of up to 2&nbsp;GB of flash memory storage, and a 1.3-megapixel camera (an improvement from the sub-megapixel VGA 640 x 480 camera). The MiniUSB functionality was changed from allowing access to the Hiptop's internal communications to only allowing access to the MiniSD card over a USB v1.1 port.
[[File:Side by Sidekick.jpg|thumb|Side by side Hiptop2 (left) and Hiptop3 (right)]]

==== Limited edition ====
The T-Mobile USA Sidekick 3 was made available in three limited edition models which only differed in cosmetic color changes:

* [[Diane von Fürstenberg]]&nbsp;— Black with pink lips; released October 30, 2006
* [[LRG clothing|Lifted Research Group]]&nbsp;— Green with tree logos
* [[Dwyane Wade]]&nbsp;— White and gold with a basketball texture; released February 1, 2007, to coincide with the [[NBA All-Star Game]] of February 17, 2007

=== T-Mobile Sidekick iD (Sharp) ===
The Sidekick iD is a smaller version of the Sidekick 3, unveiled on April 13, 2007.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Lam |first=Brian |date=2007-04-13 |title=Sidekick ID Official From T-Mobile |url=https://gizmodo.com/sidekick-id-official-from-t-mobile-251993 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Gizmodo |language=en-US}}</ref> The Sidekick iD was aimed at younger, less affluent customers, with a price of $99 (on a two-year contract) which was half of the Sidekick 3.<ref name=":5" /> To reduce the cost of the Sidekick iD, the creators, (Sharp), removed some of the features of the Sidekick 3, including the 1.3-megapixel camera, the Bluetooth capability, and its media player.<ref name=":5" /> However it did retain the Sidekick-patented swivel screen, the hidden keyboard, and the trackball. A unique new physical feature were removable colored "bumpers", allowing the appearance of the Sidekick to be easily changed and were available in various colors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Biggs |first=John |date=2007-04-13 |title=Sidekick ID Hands On |url=https://techcrunch.com/2007/04/13/sidekick-id-hands-on/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== T-Mobile Sidekick LX (Sharp) ===
[[File:T-Mobile Sidekick LX (front, open).jpg|thumb|The T-Mobile Sidekick LX]]
The T-Mobile Sidekick LX (model no. PV-250) was announced on September 26, 2007<ref>{{Cite web |date=2007-09-26 |title=T-Mobile announces Sidekick LX and Sidekick Slide |url=https://www.engadget.com/2007-09-26-t-mobile-announces-sidekick-lx-and-sidekick-slide.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref> and released on October 17, 2007. It was sold in two different colors: Midnight Blue and Espresso Brown. In addition to the two color selections, the LX includes a wider, higher-resolution screen, blue LED mood lights on all four corners which coordinate to the user's settings, downloadable music and backgrounds, a lighter weight, [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging, and a Micro SD card slot with a 128&nbsp;MB card included, and an updated operating system.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T‑Mobile USA Announces Highly Anticipated New Sidekick LX |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-usa-announces-highly-anticipated-new-sidekick-lx |website=T-Mobile US}}</ref>

On July 16, 2008, T-Mobile released a limited edition [[Tony Hawk]] Edition Sidekick LX, which includes video recording.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sidekick.com |title=T-Mobile Sidekick LX, and Sidekick ID&nbsp;– Experience the full line of Sidekicks and Buy Online |publisher=Sidekick.com |access-date=2011-06-01}}</ref> 

Despite production models being made for testing, ultimately the LX was never released in Australia due to a lack of compatibility with Telstra's [[3G]] 850Mhz network, however Telstra went ahead with selling the Slide after the Hiptop3.

=== hiptop slide / Sidekick Slide (Motorola) ===
[[File:Telstrahiptopslidej33ry.jpg|thumb|Hiptop Slide as sold in Australia|left]]Manufactured by [[Motorola]] (model no. Q700), the Sidekick Slide was released on November 7, 2007 on T-Mobile US.<ref name="Sidekick/Hiptop Slide and LX Release Date and Information">{{cite web |date=September 25, 2007 |title=T-Mobile Shows Off Two New Sidekicks |url=http://www.phonescoop.com/news/item.php?n=2424 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131214610/http://www.phonescoop.com/news/item.php?n=2424 |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |access-date=2011-06-01 |publisher=Phonescoop.com}}</ref> Unlike the Sidekick LX, the Slide also received releases elsewhere: it was released under the name Hiptop Slide (stylized hiptop slide) through [[Telstra]] in Australia on November 5, 2007,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Telstra HipTop Slide |url=https://www.news.com.au/old-t3chnol0gy/reviews/mobile-phones/telstra-hiptop-slide/news-story/5c4f415c30d3d3247c4a39c49bb53b40}}</ref> and was later released in the UK and Germany by T-Mobile.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Merrett |first=Andy |date=2007-10-25 |title=T-Mobile to launch Sidekick Slide in the UK |url=https://www.techdigest.tv/2007/10/tmobile_to_laun_2.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Tech Digest |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Redaktion |first=ZDNet de |date=2007-12-12 |title=T-Mobile holt den Sidekick Slide nach Deutschland |url=https://www.zdnet.de/39159663/t-mobile-holt-den-sidekick-slide-nach-deutschland/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=ZDNet.de |language=de-DE}}</ref> Unlike other Hiptops/Sidekicks, this model has a non-swivel, [[Slider phone|slider]] form factor for revealing the keyboard. On May 16, 2008, a new version of the Sidekick Slide was released, named the Sidekick Slide Scarlet, coming in a red colored body.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2008-05-16 |title=T-Mobile rolls out Sidekick Slide Scarlet |url=https://www.engadget.com/2008-05-16-t-mobile-rolls-out-sidekick-slide-scarlet.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref>

It runs on the updated version 4.0 of Danger OS. Like the LX, this Sidekick for T-Mobile USA adds the MMS picture messaging capability and provides support for T-Mobile MyFaves plans. The T-Mobile Sidekick Slide, although less expensive than the LX, provides various hardware upgrades: these include 128&nbsp;MB RAM and 225&nbsp;MHz TI OMAP 850 processor (as opposed to the Sidekick 3 and LX's 64&nbsp;MB RAM and 200&nbsp;MHz OMAP 331 processor), and a second speaker which is located on the back of the device, as opposed to the Hiptop3 and LX's reliance on the D-pad speaker for both calls and music playback.<ref name="Sidekick/Hiptop Slide Hardware Specifications">{{cite web|url=http://www.phonescoop.com/phones/phone.php?p=1157 |title=Motorola Sidekick Slide |publisher=Phonescoop.com |date=2007-09-18 |access-date=2011-06-01}}</ref>

The Sidekick Slide was officially discontinued on August 8, 2008.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2008-08-08 |title=Sidekick Slide discontinued |url=https://www.engadget.com/2008-08-08-sidekick-slide-discontinued.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref> 

==== Failure and sales suspension ====
T-Mobile USA suspended sales of the Sidekick Slide on November 16, 2007, after Motorola confirmed that some devices inadvertently powered off when the slide door on the front side of the phone was opened or closed.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2007-11-19 |title=Motorola gets kick in the side as T-Mobile USA suspends Sidekick {{!}} RCR Wireless News |url=https://www.rcrwireless.com/20071119/carriers/motorola-gets-kick-in-the-side-as-t-mobile-usa-suspends-sidekick |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en-US}}</ref> On November 21, 2007, Motorola stated the failures were triggered by poor battery contacts; sliding the screen out to type on the keyboard sometimes loosened the contact and forced the device to shut off momentarily.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Fermoso |first=Jose |title=T-Mobile Suspends Sales of New Sidekick Due To Glitch, Promises Solution By Next Week |url=https://www.wired.com/2007/11/t-mobile-suspen/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |magazine=Wired |language=en-US |issn=1059-1028}}</ref> On December 6, 2007, the Sidekick Slide was once again available for purchase.

=== T-Mobile Sidekick 2008 (Sharp) ===
Announced on July 30, 2008, the new model officially named solely as T-Mobile Sidekick (but often referred to as "Sidekick 2008" to distinguish)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sidekick: The new T-Mobile Sidekick in photos and specs {{!}} News.Wirefly |url=https://news.wirefly.com/2008/07/30/sidekick-the-new-t-mobile-sidekick-in-photos-and-specs |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=news.wirefly.com}}</ref> was the first Sidekick to be introduced following the acquisition of Danger by [[Microsoft]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2008-04-15 |title=Microsoft completes acquisition of Danger, Sidekick doomed? |url=https://techcrunch.com/2008/04/15/microsoft-completes-acquisition-of-danger-sidekick-doomed/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> The Sidekick 2008 has improved features such as a high resolution 2-megapixel camera and video functionality for AIM. It also went back to the swivel Qwerty design, including changeable face/backplates.<ref>{{cite web |author=Jason Chen |url=https://gizmodo.com/5030676/t+mobile-sidekick-2008-review |title=T-Mobile Sidekick 2008 Review |publisher=Gizmodo.com |date=2008-07-30 |access-date=2011-06-01 |archive-date=2011-05-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110526110536/http://gizmodo.com/5030676/t+mobile-sidekick-2008-review |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== T-Mobile Sidekick LX 2009 (Sharp) ===
[[File:Lx09.png|thumb|T-Mobile Sidekick LX (2009 edition)]]
The 2009 edition of the Sidekick LX (model no. PV-300), often referred to as "Sidekick LX 2009" (known during the development phase as the "Sidekick Blade") was unveiled on April 17, 2009<ref>{{Cite web |title=T‑Mobile USA Announces New 3G-Enabled Sidekick LX™ |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-usa-announces-new-3g-enabled-sidekick-lx}}</ref> and released on May 13, 2009, sold in "Orchid" and "Carbon" skins.<ref name="betanews">{{cite web |date=17 April 2009 |title=T-Mobile kicks off Sidekick pre-sale, announces ship date |url=http://www.betanews.com/article/TMobile-kicks-off-Sidekick-presale-announces-ship-date/1239968667 |access-date=2011-06-01 |publisher=Betanews.com}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Kumparak |first=Greg |date=2009-04-17 |title=T-Mobile officially announces the 3G Sidekick LX, coming May 13 |url=https://techcrunch.com/2009/04/16/t-mobile-officially-announces-the-sidekick-lx-coming-may-13/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> The new handset supports [[3G]] and [[HSDPA]], and makes various changes to the hardware, including a 3.2&nbsp;inch [[FWVGA|F-WVGA]] display with 854×480 resolution, and a 3.2-megapixel camera with autofocus and flash.<ref name=":6" />

However, most of the known changes involve software and improved functionality for [[social networking]] applications. Support for [[Facebook]], [[Twitter]] and [[MySpace]] is now native to the system, allowing the handset to pass along notifications in the status bar as it does with instant messaging, e-mail and so forth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick Goes Social |website=[[Bloomberg News]] |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2009-04-16/t-mobile-sidekick-goes-social}}</ref> [[YouTube]] streaming playback is also supported on the system through Flash Lite.

The Sidekick LX 2009 offered synchronization with [[Microsoft Outlook]] and [[Microsoft Exchange Server|Microsoft Exchange]], through a download via the applications catalog. The highest-profile addition to the handset was [[Bing (search engine)|Bing]] (then called "Live Search"), was added and integrated with the new [[GPS]] functionality;<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sidekick LX 2009 Review - T-Mobile Phone Reviews by Mobile Tech Review |url=https://www.mobiletechreview.com/phones/Sidekick-LX-2009.htm |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=www.mobiletechreview.com}}</ref> the mapping software previously relied on cell-tower triangulation (a far less accurate process). The application included turn-by-turn navigation.

Both the Sidekick LX 2009 and Sidekick 2008 were discontinued on July 2, 2010.<ref name="Important Sidekick Announcement" />

== Software ==

The Hiptop [[operating system]], referred to as DangerOS, is one of very few [[Java (programming language)|Java]]-based [[operating system]]s. Even the device drivers were developed in Java. Elements of DangerOS's architecture was used later by [[Andy Rubin]] to create the [[Android (operating system)|Android]] operating system.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=founder |first1=RICHARD WINDSORRichard is |last2=Company |first2=Owner of Research |last3=Securities |first3=Radio Free Mobile He has 16 years of experience working in sell side equity research During his 11 year tenure at Nomura |last4=sector |first4=he focused on the equity coverage of the Global Technology |title=Microsoft – From Danger Comes Gold – Radio Free Mobile |url=https://www.radiofreemobile.com/microsoft-from-danger-comes-gold/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en-US}}</ref> The Sidekick LX 2009 model runs DangerOS 5.0 which is based on [[NetBSD]].<ref>[http://fogey.com/contemplating/?p=1023 How NetBSD came to be shipped by Microsoft.]</ref>

Each Sidekick had an [[instant messaging]] (IM) client (with [[AOL Instant Messenger|AIM]], [[Yahoo Messenger]], and [[MSN Messenger]]); an Email client with an included T-Mail account; a pre-installed game (Rockets and Rocks or Bob's Journey); an organizer with planner, a calendar, and calculator; an [[SMS]] and phone app; a Download Fun catalog (also called Catalog on Hiptop devices);<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 26, 2005 |title=hiptop Developer FAQ |url=http://developer.danger.com/site/faq |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051126134520/http://developer.danger.com/site/faq#q56 |archive-date=November 26, 2005 |access-date=September 26, 2022 |website=Danger Developer Zone}}</ref> and later devices had a variety of [[social networking]] apps accessed from a section called Communities. Devices released in Europe also had a [[WAP browser]] (Wapaka<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 September 2004 |title=New Java Wapaka MIDlet offers customized access to mobile content |url=https://www.mobileeurope.co.uk/Press-Wire/2726 |access-date=2018-11-24 |website=www.mobileeurope.co.uk |language=en-gb}}</ref>) developed by the French company Digital Airways.

A cloud service backed up all personal data like settings, planner, notes, calendar, photos and all contacts. It was accessible and also editable on a web interface. A factory reset or new device was able to restore all personal data by signing in with the person's username and password.

As of January 2009, Danger OS had a 3% share in US smartphone traffic, behind iPhone OS, BlackBerry OS, Windows Mobile and Palm OS.<ref>{{Cite web| title=AdMob Mobile Metrics Report | url=https://macdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/mobile_metrics_jan_09.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250530143850/https://macdailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/mobile_metrics_jan_09.pdf | archive-date=2025-05-30}}</ref>

=== App development ===
{{Original research|date=May 2025|reason=}}
For Hiptop development, Danger has its own proprietary [[application programming interface|API]]s, which are a subset of J2SE with their own extensions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://developer.danger.com/site/faq#q3|title=Hiptop developer FAQ|date=2010-04-15|work=www.danger.com|access-date=2010-04-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100405231610/http://developer.danger.com/site/faq#q3|archive-date=2010-04-05|url-status=dead}}</ref> Danger introduced support for [[Java ME]], the Java language optimized for mobile devices, to its OS with the release of OS 2.3. To aid third-party software design, Danger released a comprehensive [[software development kit]] (SDK) that contained a Hiptop simulator, development installation utilities, and Danger API information. The SDK was available without charge from Danger's development website.

Application developers can bypass the Catalog, the only way for the public to install apps, by using the included programs in the Danger Hiptop SDK to install user-written applications to the Hiptop device directly.  To do this, you had to apply for a special software key known as a Danger Developer Key. The Danger Developer Key is a special security certificate that is provided by Danger that enables the device to be used as a Development Device.  This will allow the installation of user-written applications to the device, but will void any software warranty provided by Danger and/or your wireless carrier. Any applicable hardware warranties should still apply.

While DangerOS uses [[.jar]] files for applications, they are uploaded to the device in special files called "bundles". Bundle files have the extension '.bndl'. Each bundle file is linked to a specific operating system version and build number.  For example, a bundle file for v3.4/155053 (T-Mobile Sidekick 3) would be denied installation on a v3.3/149695 device (T-Mobile Sidekick iD).  Installation of bundles require a developer key to be installed on your device if you are using a Production OS. Internal OS builds do not require developer keys.

== Sales and marketing ==
As of late 2005, it was estimated that there were 250,000 subscribers to the Sidekick on T-Mobile's network in the US.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Duryee |first=Tricia |date=2005-12-12 |title=T-Mobile uses celebrity buzz to market its Sidekick |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/business/t-mobile-uses-celebrity-buzz-to-market-its-sidekick/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=The Seattle Times |language=en-US}}</ref> As of 2009, it has been estimated that one million Sidekicks had been sold.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Vance |first=Ashlee |date=2009-10-11 |title=Some Users May Lose Data on a T-Mobile Smartphone |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/technology/business-computing/12sidekick.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> While the phone had a [[cult following]], it generally only achieved modest sales.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Markoff |first=John |date=2007-11-04 |title=I, Robot: The Man Behind the Google Phone |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/04/technology/04google.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref>

The T-Mobile Sidekick became a popular choice for known American celebrities which played a great part in increasing its public popularity and recognizability.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Duryee |first=Tricia |date=2005-12-12 |title=T-Mobile uses celebrity buzz to market its Sidekick |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/business/t-mobile-uses-celebrity-buzz-to-market-its-sidekick/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=The Seattle Times |language=en-US}}</ref> Skateboarder [[Tony Hawk]] was quoted as saying "I can’t live without my Sidekick,", "I take it everywhere with me", in 2004.<ref name=":3" /> In February 2005, the device and Danger attracted much media attention after a Sidekick used by [[Paris Hilton]] was hacked.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile reacts to Hilton's Sidekick hack |url=https://www.itnews.com.au/news/t-mobile-reacts-to-hiltons-sidekick-hack-62958 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=iTnews}}</ref>

A Midnight Blue Sidekick LX was featured in the video game ''[[Midnight Club: Los Angeles]]'' (2008).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Leigh |date=2008-10-21 |title=Midnight Club: Los Angeles |url=https://variety.com/2008/digital/features/midnight-club-los-angeles-1200471421/ |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Variety |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== In Europe ===
In addition to the US, [[T-Mobile Deutschland|T-Mobile of Germany]] also offered the Sidekick as well [[T-Mobile UK]] and [[T-Mobile Austria]] as of 2006. Additionally, [[E-Plus]] in Germany and [[KPN]] in the Netherlands also carried and offered the device. The Hiptop/Sidekick was not carried by any French carriers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2006-11-16 |title=Le Sidekick, nouvelle coqueluche "techno" des jeunes américains |url=https://www.lexpress.fr/economie/high-tech/le-sidekick-nouvelle-coqueluche-techno-des-jeunes-americains_1347496.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=L'Express |language=fr}}</ref> As opposed to the US, the phone did not manage to catch on and gain significant popularity throughout Europe.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Nokia notices, finally targets Danger Sidekick generation |url=https://www.theregister.com/2009/07/14/nokia_surge_qwerty/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712022213/https://www.theregister.com/2009/07/14/nokia_surge_qwerty/ |archive-date=2021-07-12 |access-date=2025-05-30 |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick 3 Preview - Mobile Gazette - Mobile Phone News |url=https://mobilegazette.com/t-mobile-sidekick-3-06x06x09.htm |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=mobilegazette.com}}</ref> This is partly due to the view that it had outdated features.<ref>{{Cite web |title=T-Mobile Sidekick Slide messaging phone |url=https://www.theregister.com/Print/2007/11/01/review_t_mobile_sidekick_slide/ |website=The Register}}</ref>

== 2009 data service outage ==
{{Main|2009 Sidekick data loss}}
On October 2, 2009, [[Microsoft]] (the owner of Danger, Inc.) lost the ability to access user data for T-Mobile US Sidekick subscribers temporarily. Subscriber data loss included contacts, notes, calendars and photos. Some data was restored within 14 days of the outage, but most of the data was restored between October 8 and the end of November. Early reports stating T-Mobile and Microsoft had lost all customer data as a result of a server failure at Microsoft proved to be untrue.<ref name="engadget-loss">{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2009/10/10/t-mobile-we-probably-lost-all-your-sidekick-data/ |title=T-Mobile: we probably lost all your Sidekick data |date=10 October 2009 |publisher=Engadget |access-date=2011-06-01}}</ref>

Sidekick user data is stored at Danger facilities, under the ownership of Microsoft.<ref>{{cite news |title=Danger no backups |newspaper=[[The Inquirer]] |date=12 October 2009 |url=http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1558214/danger-backups |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091013153615/http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1558214/danger-backups |url-status=unfit |archive-date=October 13, 2009 }}</ref> Unsubstantiated reports suggest Microsoft vendor [[Hitachi]], Danger's [[storage area network]] (SAN) provider may have had a part in the temporary data loss.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sidekick failure rumors point fingers at outsourcing, lack of backups |newspaper=[[engadget]] |date=11 October 2008 |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009/10/11/sidekick-failure-rumors-point-fingers-at-outsourcing-lack-of-ba/ }}</ref> Lawsuits against Microsoft claim that Microsoft had inadequate backups or an insufficient [[disaster recovery plan]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Microsoft kills the Sidekick. The first smart phone is dead |newspaper=[[Computerworld]] |date=11 October 2009 |url=http://blogs.computerworld.com/14893/microsoft_kills_the_sidekick_the_first_smart_phone_is_dead |access-date=2009-10-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091012232721/http://blogs.computerworld.com/14893/microsoft_kills_the_sidekick_the_first_smart_phone_is_dead |archive-date=2009-10-12 |url-status=dead }}</ref> A litigation against Microsoft and others was settled in 2011.<ref>{{citation |title=T-Mobile Sidekick Class Action Settlement |date=26 January 2011 |url=http://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/992-t-mobile-sidekick-class-action-settlement/ }}</ref>

As a result of the outage, T-Mobile suspended sales of all Sidekicks and Sidekick Data Plans until the outage was resolved. Sales and new activations resumed on November 16, 2009.

== Discontinuation and related devices ==
T-Mobile announced on July 2, 2010, that the Sidekick LX 09 and Sidekick 2008 would no longer be available through T-Mobile.<ref name="Important Sidekick Announcement" /> Later, Danger notified its development community via their Danger Developer Zone forums that it would no longer accept submissions for its application store, called the Catalog, on September 21, 2010.<ref>{{cite web |date=2010-09-13 |title=Danger Closing Developer Program |url=http://www.hiptop3.com/archives/danger-closing-developer-program |access-date=2010-09-13 |work=www.hiptop3.com}}</ref> The development of applications for the Sidekick platform was also halted on September 21, 2010.<ref>{{cite web |date=2010-09-13 |title=Danger Developer Zone Announcement |url=http://developer.danger.com/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227045114/http://developer.danger.com/ |archive-date=27 February 2009 |access-date=12 September 2010 |work=Danger Development Community Announcement |publisher=Danger}}</ref> This was followed by the closure of the Danger Developer Zone forums and related archives September 30, 2010.<ref>{{cite web |date=2010-09-13 |title=» Danger Closing Developer Program&nbsp;— Sidekick 4G / Sidekick LX 2009 / Sidekick 2008 / Sidekick 3 / Hiptop 3 |url=http://www.hiptop3.com/archives/danger-closing-developer-program#comments |access-date=2011-06-01 |publisher=Hiptop3.com}}</ref>

=== Mobilicity Mobiflip and Sharp Jump ===
While the T-Mobile Sidekick LX 2009 was no longer sold from July 2, 2010 onwards, a modified version of the device was released in December 2010 in Canada, by carrier [[Mobilicity]], under the name "Mobiflip" (model no. PV300G),<ref>{{Cite web |date=2010-12-22 |title=Sharp Mobiflip channels Sidekick LX's vibes for Mobilicity |url=https://www.engadget.com/2010-12-22-sharp-mobiflip-channels-sidekick-lxs-vibes-for-mobilicity.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref> while in the US, regional carrier [[Cincinnati Bell]] began selling the "Sharp Jump" (model no. PV300GC) in March 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-03-14 |title=Sharp Jump sidekicks its way onto Cincinnati Bell |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011-03-14-sharp-jump-sidekicks-its-way-onto-cincinnati-bell.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref> Both devices have a modified version of the Danger OS installed, although any mention of Danger has been removed. This modified OS is independent of any backend service: the original Danger web browser, instant messaging and email apps are replaced respectively with [[Opera Mini]], a universal ([[XMPP]] compatible) IM client, and without any email clients installed, and there is no Catalog service available.

=== Danger cloud service shutdown ===
On February 28, 2011, [[Engadget]] reported Microsoft would discontinue Danger's cloud service on May 31, 2011. After that date, Sidekicks no longer had access to any data services, though voice service still functioned.<ref name=":0" /> The service had already shut down earlier, April 30, 2009, in Canada.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-02-16 |title=Canada's Fido deep-sixes Hiptop service |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009-02-16-canadas-fido-deep-sixes-hiptop-service.html |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref>

In Australia, the Telstra Hiptop service was continued for existing customers after May 31, 2011, when the T-Mobile USA Sidekick service was shut down. Then, it was announced that the Hiptop service for Telstra customers was to be discontinued on October 4, 2011. Selected affected customers received a free [[Samsung Galaxy 5|Samsung Galaxy 555]] to replace their Hiptop devices.<ref>{{cite web |title=HipTop Mobile Service Closure |url=https://telstra.com.au/webforms/hiptop/?red=/hiptop/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330180914/https://telstra.com.au/webforms/hiptop/?red=%2Fhiptop%2F |archive-date=2012-03-30 |access-date=2011-08-14 |publisher=Telstra}}</ref>

=== T-Mobile Sidekick 4G (Samsung) ===
[[File:Sidekick 4G.jpg|thumb|right|T-Mobile Sidekick 4G]]

On April 13, 2011, T-Mobile revived the Sidekick brand for a new [[4G]] [[HSPA+]]-compatible [[Android (operating system)|Android]] smartphone developed by [[Samsung]], known as the Sidekick 4G,<ref>{{Cite news |title=T‑Mobile Sidekick is Reborn ‑ T‑Mobile Newsroom |url=https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-sidekick-is-reborn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250118112053/https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/t-mobile-sidekick-is-reborn |archive-date=2025-01-18 |access-date=2025-05-30 |work=T-Mobile Newsroom |language=en-US |url-status=live }}</ref> based on the [[Samsung Galaxy S (2010 smartphone)|Galaxy S]]. It incorporates features from the original series, including the keyboard, 3.2-megapixel camera (minus LED flash), and the four-button layout, and adds a new Android-powered interface incorporating elements from the Hiptop's operating system. It should not be confused for a Danger device, to which these have no relation other than the T-Mobile exclusive "Sidekick" branding.

== Usage by the deaf and hard-of-hearing ==
When the Hiptop/T-Mobile Sidekick was initially released in late 2002, it was the only cellular phone to factory integrate an instant messaging client, specifically [[AOL Instant Messenger]]. This text-based communications medium, along with on-device email and a full QWERTY keyboard, made it popular with the [[deaf community]], providing a telecommunications tool for use both inside and outside the home.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gizmodo |date=2003-05-10 |title=Deaf people like the Sidekick |url=https://gizmodo.com/deaf-people-like-the-sidekick-6152 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Gizmodo |language=en-US}}</ref> Almost immediately it began replacing the dominant wireless devices used by the deaf at that time, namely [[Motorola]]'s [[Motorola Talkabout|Talkabout]] T900, [[Motorola PageWriter 2000|PageWriter]], and [[Motorola Timeport|Timeport]], as well as the early RIM and [[BlackBerry]] e-mail pagers manufactured by [[Research In Motion]].

The Hiptop/T-Mobile Sidekick's importance to the deaf was further solidified in March 2003 when it became the first cellular phone capable of placing unassisted [[Telecommunications device for the deaf|TDD]] and [[Telecommunications relay service|Relay Operator calls]] through the phone's [[web browser]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tdi-online.org/tdi/AssistiveDeviceMilestones.asp |title=Telecommunications for the Deaf (TDI) - Access Milestones |work= Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Inc. |access-date= 1 June 2011 }}</ref> using a system developed by Jon B. Sharpe at Lormar Logic Company. Lormar Logic enhanced the TDD/Relay Operator system in August 2003 by developing a means for the deaf to place calls through AOL Instant Messenger.<ref>{{cite web |last=Machrone |first=Bill |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,1731004,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03079TX1K0000585 |work=PC Magazine |title=Wireless Communications for the Deaf using Lormar Logic |publisher=Pcmag.com |date=24 November 2004 |access-date=1 June 2011 |archive-date=16 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081016121102/http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,1731004,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03079TX1K0000585 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

[[MCI Inc.|MCI Relay]] followed two months later with a Relay Operator system accessible through [[telnet]]. MCI Relay and Hamilton Relay both released AOL Instant Messenger relay systems in July of the following year. By 2005, at least four Relay Operator providers (Hamilton, MCI, Sprint, Sorenson, and i711) were providing direct Relay Operator access from the Sidekick using either one of the instant messenger clients or through a free download from the Catalog, and two companies (Lormar Logic and i711) were providing direct TDD access. The software for these is provided at no additional charge in addition to the normal data plan. The free Lormar Logic service also provides the Deaf with direct encrypted calling to the United States Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. The i711 client provides extra services to the Deaf at an additional fee (such as [[American Automobile Association|AAA]] roadside services, and finding [[Closed captioning|Open Captioned]] movies, etc.).

Access to direct TDD and relay operator communications has allowed the Hiptop/T-Mobile Sidekick and similar devices to, in many cases, replace the use of standard TDD machines, and its dominance is clearly illustrated by the evolution of its own sign in [[American Sign Language]], made using both hands to mimic the opening of the rotating screen.

T-Mobile's decision to offer a "data only" wireless plan, thereby eliminating charges for unusable voice minutes, also played a role in the device's dominance in the deaf community. Additionally, some local deaf non-profit groups in the U.S. will either pay all or part of the cost of the device/monthly service fees for the user to keep them "connected". Other groups have set up discount programs, where Deaf users receive a discount on the cost of the device and monthly service fee based on the number of members in the group.<ref>{{cite press release |work= Danger, Inc. |title= Announces Improvements to hiptop for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities |date=15 September 2004 |url=http://www.danger.com/press/pr.php?cat=2004&id=20040915 |access-date=18 May 2007 |archive-url  =https://web.archive.org/web/20070927075531/http://www.danger.com/press/pr.php?cat=2004&id=20040915 |archive-date= 27 September 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

== Model comparison ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Marketing name
!hiptop / Sidekick
!hiptop<sup>2</sup> / Sidekick II
!hiptop<sup>3</sup> / Sidekick 3
!Sidekick iD
!Sidekick LX
!hiptop slide / Sidekick Slide
!Sidekick <small>(2008)</small>
!Sidekick LX <small>(2009)</small>
|-
!Model number
!
!Sharp PV-100
!Sharp PV-200
!Sharp PV-150
!Sharp PV-250
!Motorola Q700
!Sharp PV-210
!Sharp PV-300
|-
!Cellular bands
|[[GSM]] triband
|[[GSM]] triband
|[[GSM]] triband
|[[GSM]] dual-band (850/1900)
|[[GSM]] quad-band
|[[GSM]] quad-band
|[[GSM]] quad-band
|[[GSM]] quad-band / [[UMTS]]/[[HSDPA]] dual-band
|-
!Display
|240x160 pixel 4-bit [[monochrome]] (65K color on the color model variant)
|2.6 inch 240x160 pixel [[Thin-film transistor|TFT]] 65K color
|2.6 inch 240x160 pixel [[Thin-film transistor|TFT]] 65K color
|3.0 inch 240x160 pixel [[Thin-film transistor|TFT]] 65K color
|3.0 inch 400x240 ([[WQVGA]]) pixel TFT
|2.0 inch 320x240 ([[QVGA]]) pixel
|2.6 inch 400x240 ([[WQVGA]]) pixel TFT
|3.2 inch 854x480 ([[FWVGA]]) pixel TFT
|-
!Memory
|16MB RAM (32MB RAM on color model)
|32MB RAM
|64MB RAM
|64MB RAM
|64MB RAM
|128MB RAM
|128MB RAM
|128MB RAM
|-
!Camera
|No
|0.3 megapixel with flash
|1.3 megapixel with flash
|No
|1.3 megapixel with flash
|1.3 megapixel
|2 megapixel, video recording
|3.2 megapixel with flash, autofocus, video recording
|-
!Bluetooth
|No
|No
|Bluetooth 1.2
|No
|Bluetooth 2.0
|Bluetooth 2.0
|Bluetooth 2.0
|Bluetooth 2.0
|-
!Dimensions
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.6|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|4.5|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|1.1|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.6|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|5.1|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.9|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.3|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|5.1|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.8|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.4|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|5.1|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.8|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.4|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|5.1|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.6|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.6|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|4.6|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.6|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.3|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|4.7|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.7|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|{{plainlist|* {{convert|2.4|in|mm|abbr = on}} H 
* {{convert|5.1|in|mm|abbr = on}} W 
* {{convert|0.6|in|mm|abbr=on}} D}}
|-
!Weight
|{{convert|6.2|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|6.5|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|6.7|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|6.2|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|5.7|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|5.3|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|4.8|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|5.7|oz|g|abbr=on}}
|}

== See also ==
* [[EnV]]
* [[Helio Ocean]]
* [[HTC Dream]]
* [[HTC Touch Pro2]]
* [[HTC Wizard]]
* [[iPhone]]
* [[Microsoft KIN]]
* [[N-Gage]]
* [[Ogo (handheld device)|Ogo]]
* [[Palm Pixi]]
* [[Pogo Mobile and nVoy|Pogo]]
* [[Sony Ericsson P800]]
* [[Mylo (Sony)|Sony Mylo]]

== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
{{commons category}}
* [http://www.sidekick.com T-Mobile Sidekick]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061210122557/http://www.danger.com/ Danger, Inc.]
* [https://archive.today/20070915051048/http://www.poweredbydanger.com/ Danger-sponsored Website & Forums]

[[Category:Mobile phones introduced in 2002]]
[[Category:Products and services discontinued in 2010]]
[[Category:Deutsche Telekom]]
[[Category:Personal digital assistants]]
[[Category:Mobile phones with an integrated hardware keyboard]]
[[Category:Sharp Corporation mobile phones]]
[[Category:Motorola smartphones]]
[[Category:Samsung smartphones]]
[[Category:Discontinued smartphones]]
[[Category:Slider phones]]