The Direct Connect button is located below the main keypad and it enables users to gain access to the walkie talkie service. Speakerphone key is at the rear of the phone, while the push-to talk and volume control keys are situated at the left side of the phone. The 2.5mm headphone jack is on the right side of the phone, followed by the AC/data port at the bottom of the phone which is protected by a thick rubber flap. The silver-ringed speaker and battery cover can be seen at the back of the Motorola i355 .

This large phone has quite a number of features to be boasted about and the main ones are its tough and durable built, followed by the Direct Connect service that enables users to access to the walkie talkie service that will connect them instantly to other Nextel phone users and the GPS feature allows users to view their location approximately and if they make emergency calls this feature enables the emergency personnel to locate them which can save time and lives. Other personalization features is the 600 contacts capacitated phonebook that permits a few numbers followed by an e-mail and web address per entry which is reasonable enough. Callers can be grouped and identified with the 3 given polyphonic ringtones or there are 12 monophonic ring tones that can be used to identify the caller ID.

Plus point about the Direct Connect service that must be emphasized upon is that this service works anywhere and anytime and its coverage ranges up to 6 miles and it is not necessary for users to be connected to the network in order to communicate via the walkie-talkie. This is a very useful service as users can use it to communicate in times of emergency, network outrage or when traveling in remote areas that have no Nextel coverage, this something users can't find in other phones making this phone unique in its own way.

Basic features that this phone has to offer is call timers, a calendar to with weeks and month view, an airplane mode, a speakerphone, voice calling and memos, multimedia and text messaging, a WAP 2.0 wireless web browser and a vibrate mode. Users have the option to change wallpapers from the available animated versions and are given the flexibility to change the menu and clock styles, ringer profiles and color palates. The "airplane mode" lets users turn off network connection whilst still utilizing the games, programs, date book and the voice record features. Users can entertain themselves as with the availability of Java technology there are preloaded games such as Tetris and JAMDAT Bowling. The fun continues as users can download more games, ring tones, news, sports update and virtual address books with the Nextel Online.

The Motorola i355 comes with a Lithium Ion battery, high-capacity battery door, accessory port dust, rapid travel charger and of course a manual. This phone uses iDEN 800 technology to operate thus users can expect to enjoy loud and clear calls and should have no problems even when utilizing the phone near other electrical gadgets. The battery life provides users with 4.5 hours Talk-time and 10 days of Standby time. Although this phone is most suitable to be used by those who are exposed to various types of elements in the environment, it can be concluded that this phone has more to offer other group of users too can benefit greatly from this wonderful phone.