The LG Optimus S features a 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen display, a virtual keyboard, and a 3.2MP camera on the back of the device. You’ll get a microSD card slot for expandable memory, too. And, as we’ve come to expect from major Android releases, you’ll get access to the Android Market, as well as other Google-centric applicaitons, like Maps and Gmail. Sprint is also including a Mobile Hotspot functionality, but there’s no word on how many devices at a time can be connected to the device.

As far as pricing goes, this is where Sprint is excited about the LG Optimus S. The device will cost only $49.99, after you send in a mail-in rebate and sign yourself over for a new, two-year agreement. If you’re interested in the new LG, which features Sprint ID (which you can watch in action below), it will be made available on October 31st online, and in stores. Check out the full press release below.

Press Release

With Sprint ID and Android 2.2, LG Optimus S Boasts the Ultimate in Style and Personalization; Available for Less than $50 from Sprint Beginning Oct. 31
Multimedia Gallery

http://www.lgmobilephones.com

SAN FRANCISCO (BUSINESS WIRE), October 06, 2010 – Sprint (NYSE: S) and LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones) today announced the upcoming availability of LG Optimus S™, one of the first Android™-powered devices to offer the ultimate personalized experience with Sprint ID, a new user-friendly way of personalizing Android devices. Offering easy-to-use Google™ applications, LG Optimus S delivers an engaging Android experience for first-time smartphone users. LG Optimus S will also be the only Sprint ID phone to launch with Android 2.2 offering users hotspot functionality.

LG Optimus S will be available beginning on Sunday, Oct. 31, in all Sprint retail channels including www.sprint.com and 1-800-SPRINT1 for just $49.99 with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade and after a $100 mail-in rebate (pricing excludes taxes).

Sprint ID allows LG Optimus S users to quickly download ID packs that deliver a predefined experience, including applications, widgets, ringtones and wallpapers, all at once. Packs are designed to meet customers’ interests, whether they are sports fans, fitness fanatics, auto enthusiasts or more. The packs could be brand-specific; allow users to easily switch between English or Spanish; or be specifically tailored to the customers’ businesses or lines of work. The marketplace of Sprint ID experiences is growing and customers can have one or up to five on their devices, powered by the Now Network.

“We are committed to bringing our customers a variety of choices in devices that offer Sprint ID,” said Fared Adib, Sprint vice president-Product Development. “LG Optimus comes packed with Android 2.2, a 3.2MP camera and visual voicemail at an amazing price. “This stylish and feature-rich smartphone is sure to be a hit for the holiday season. We are anxious to introduce it this fall.”

This affordable and highly customizable, full-featured smartphone keeps customers socially connected and organized with Android 2.2 and other key features including:

Sleek and slim design
3.2-inch capacitive touch-screen
Virtual QWERTY keyboard
Mobile Hotspot capability supporting up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices to share the 3G experience simultaneously
3.2MP camera with 2x digital zoom
microSD card slot (supporting up to 32GB)
Android Market™ – choose from more than 80,000 apps to personalize your phone
Visual Voicemail
“LG partnered with Sprint to deliver a handset that would empower first-time smartphone users to discover the changing mobile phone marketplace,” said Ehtisham Rabbani, corporate vice president of Marketing and Innovation for LG Mobile Phones. “LG Optimus S brings users closer to social networks, applications and online resources that mean the most to them and creates a smartphone experience that is unique, easy to navigate and convenient for life on-the-go.”

LG Optimus S requires activation on one of Sprint’s Everything Data plans. For just $69.99 Sprint’s Everything Data 450 plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM gives customers unlimited text, Web and calling with any mobile in America while on the Nationwide Sprint Network – all for the same price AT&T and Verizon charge for unlimited talk only (excluding Verizon’s Southern California plan; pricing excludes surcharges and taxes).

Sprint Everything Data plans automatically enroll customers in the Sprint Premier loyalty program, for benefits including annual device upgrades on the primary line. Existing Sprint customers can switch to an Everything Data plan without extending their service agreement. New lines of service require a two-year service agreement.

An optional charge of just $29.99 per month turns on LG Optimus S’s mobile hotspot feature, connecting up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, gaming devices and digital cameras, at 3G speeds anywhere on the Sprint 3G network.

The Sprint Free Guarantee is the only full-money back guarantee on service plans in the wireless industry today, allowing customers to try a new line of service with Sprint for 30 days. If a customer isn’t completely satisfied, they can cancel service and return their device to be reimbursed for the device purchase and activation fee, get the early termination fee waived, get a full refund for monthly service plan recurring charges incurred, and get all associated taxes and fees waived. In addition, Sprint will waive the restocking fee for new customer exchanges as part of this policy. Refund excludes usage not included in the service plan, premium content, third-party billing and international charges.

About Sprint Nextel

Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 48.1 million customers at the end of the second quarter of 2010 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, Common Cents Mobile and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. With its customer-focused strategy, you can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2008 global sales of $44.7 billion, LG comprises five business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner of Formula 1™ and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lge.com.

While Sprint’s on stage, they’re taking their time and making sure that all of their announcements sink in accordingly. While the Sprint ID Packs may be the focus for now, there’s also the fact that Sprint is officially announcing three brand new devices joining the Sprint network. The first up is the Sanyo Zio, which spent some time on another regional carrier here in the States, but now it’s on the Sprint network, with some major improvements.

The Sanyo Zio is an Android-based device, and will launch on October 10th. The device features a 3.5-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen display, a 3.2MP camera on the back, and Android 2.1 pre-loaded onto the device. You’ll find all of the standard Google-centric applications on the handset, too, including Gmail. Sprint’s marketing this as a price-friendly device, bringing the Android 2.1 experience to a smartphone that costs less than $100. You’ll be able to pick up the device in less than a week at a Sprint store, and it will cost you only $99 with a new, two-year contract.

Of course, the device is one of the announcement handsets for Sprint’s new Sprint ID Packs, which let you bring more customization and personalization to your device. With the Sprint ID packs, you’ll be able to put a specific theme on a single homescreen, which will also include brand new applications for each of those themes. You’ll be able to find Sprint ID Packs from partners like ESPN, Disney, and E! Entertainment. Check out the Sprint ID video below to see how it works.

Press Release

Sprint Announces Sanyo Zio Featuring Sprint ID
for a Personalized Android Experience at a Great Value

Thin, sleek Sanyo Zio from Kyocera debuts at Sprint on Oct. 10
as an ideal blend of brains and beauty for less than $100

SAN FRANCISCO – Oct. 6, 2010 – Proving that a wireless device can be smart, attractive and unique to each individual, the Android™-powered Sanyo Zio™ will launch with Sprint (NYSE: S) on Oct. 10. At the CTIA Enterprise & Applications trade show today, Sprint and Kyocera Communications Inc., provider of Kyocera- and Sanyo-branded wireless devices, announced the launch of the new smartphone to coincide with the rollout of Sprint ID, a user-friendly new means of personalizing Android devices.

With a focus on making the Android experience accessible to those looking for a phone priced under $100, Zio will cost just $99.99 with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade and after a $100 mail-in rebate (pricing excludes surcharges and taxes). It will be available in all Sprint retail channels, including www.sprint.com and 1-800-SPRINT1.

Sprint ID allows Zio users to quickly download ID packs that deliver a predefined experience, including applications, widgets, ringtones and wallpapers, all at once. Packs are designed to meet customers’ interests, whether they are sports fans, fitness fanatics, auto enthusiasts or more. The packs could be brand-specific; allow users to easily switch between English or Spanish; or be specifically tailored to the customers’ businesses or lines of work. The marketplace of Sprint ID experiences is growing and customers can have one or up to five on their devices, powered by the Now Network.

”With Sprint ID, Zio introduces a new level of personalization that allows users to completely customize their devices to match their hobbies, interests or personalities,” said Fared Adib, vice president-Product Development, Sprint. “Each ID offers a variety of unique apps, widgets, wallpapers and ringtones and gives users the opportunity to customize their devices. Pairing Sprint ID with Zio, a robust and easy-to-use Android 2.1 device, offers a rich multimedia experience with a large intuitive touch-screen at an amazing price.”

The intelligently sleek device with the customizable Android 2.1 operating system opens new realms of rich multimedia experiences with a 3.5-inch WVGA touch-screen, 3.2 MP camera and 30-frame-per-second video record and playback. The handset’s high-resolution, touch-screen display is like carrying a flatscreen TV that fits in a pocket.

Designed with productivity and entertainment in mind, Zio boasts multiple keyboard options, all with haptic feedback, an accelerometer to rotate between landscape and portrait orientations and an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts screen brightness to optimize viewing. The easy-to-use trackball also helps users navigate between the seemingly endless features found on Zio, including address book integration with such social apps as Facebook, Twitter and MySpace; GPS functionality and digital compass plus preloaded Google Maps™; media player for streaming videos; full HTML Web browser; and a full library of more than 80,000 widgets and applications available from Android Market™. Zio also features a pre-loaded Exchange Email application that supports corporate Outlook e-mail, calendar, contacts and tasks, while also supporting ActiveSync and enhanced security features.

“We are confident that Zio’s blend of style, functionality and affordability will make the virtually unlimited customization and personalization of Android available to entirely new groups of consumers who were intimidated by the technology or price of previous smartphones,” said Yasuhiro Oishi, vice president of Sales and Marketing at Kyocera Communications Inc. “Zio humanizes the technology and puts the power of Android in a sleek, attractive device.”

As beautiful as it is powerful, Zio is only 0.5 inches thick and weighs only 3.7 ounces, making it one of the thinnest, lightest Android devices on the market. The jet-black exterior is trimmed in silver with a soft-touch back that helps ensure that it won’t slip out of your hands. With 512MB of internal memory, a 2GB microSD memory card (provided in box) and support for up to 32GB microSDHC cards, Zio can handle even the most robust of applications.

Find Your Own “Best of Android” with Sprint ID
Sprint ID brings together content into themed packs that can be deployed on Zio at the touch of a button. Zio users can load up to five Sprint ID packs on their phones and change themes on a whim as the mood strikes. Specific packs can even be further customized – adding or removing elements to match preferences – while the MyID function allows users to define and create their own application packs.

Zio requires activation on one of Sprint’s Everything Data plans. For just $69.99 Sprint’s Everything Data 450 plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM gives customers unlimited text, Web and calling with any mobile in America while on the Nationwide Sprint Network – all for the same price AT&T and Verizon charge for unlimited talk only (excluding Verizon’s Southern California plan; pricing excludes surcharges and taxes).

Sprint Everything Data plans automatically enroll customers in the Sprint Premier loyalty program, for benefits including annual device upgrades on the primary line. Existing Sprint customers can switch to an Everything Data plan without extending their service agreement. New lines of service require a two-year service agreement.

The Sprint Free Guarantee is the only full-money back guarantee on service plans in the wireless industry today, allowing customers to try a new line of service with Sprint for 30 days. If a customer isn’t completely satisfied, they can cancel service and return their device to be reimbursed for the device purchase and activation fee, get the early termination fee waived, get a full refund for monthly service plan recurring charges incurred, and get all associated taxes and fees waived. In addition, Sprint will waive the restocking fee for new customer exchanges as part of this policy. Refund excludes usage not included in the service plan, premium content, third-party billing and international charges.

###

About Sprint Nextel
Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 48.1 million customers at the end of the second quarter of 2010 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, Common Cents Mobile and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. With its customer-focused strategy, you can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.

About Kyocera Communications Inc.
Kyocera Communications Inc. (KCI) is the headquarters for Kyocera- and Sanyo-branded wireless products and accessories in the Americas. The company’s devices are driving the convergence of telecommunications, broadband and multimedia. KCI was formed in April 2009 through the combination of Kyocera Wireless Corp. and Kyocera Sanyo Telecommunications Inc., two wholly owned subsidiaries of Kyocera International Inc. The former was created when Kyocera purchased QUALCOMM Incorporated’s consumer wireless phone business in 2000, while the latter was formed when Kyocera purchased the wireless phone business of Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. in 2008. Based in San Diego, KCI leverages Japan’s history of creating advanced consumer technologies around humanism and respect for the environment and blending them with a Western entrepreneurialism and style, resulting in a unique design language and a natural, user-friendly interface. For more information, http://www.kyocera-wireless.com or follow the company on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kyoceramobilephones.

Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO) (TOKYO:6971) (http://global.kyocera.com/), the parent and global headquarters of the Kyocera Group, was founded in 1959 as a producer of fine ceramics (also known as “advanced ceramics”). By combining these engineered materials with metals and plastics, and integrating them with other technologies, Kyocera has become a leading supplier of telecommunications equipment, office-document imaging equipment, solar power generating systems, semiconductor packages, electronic components, cutting tools and industrial ceramics. During the year ended During the year ended March 31, 2010, the company’s net sales totaled 1.07 trillion yen (approximately US $11.5 billion). Kyocera marked its 50th anniversary in 2009, and the 40th anniversary of its U.S. operations. It is ranked #554 on Forbes magazine’s 2010 “Global 2000″ listing of the world’s largest publicly traded companies.

The handsets, while perhaps not the main takeaway of the announcement itself, are indeed still important. The Samsung Transform is bringing another landscape QWERTY keyboard to the mix, while the Sanyo Zio is a device that we’ve seen available here in the States under the Cricket banner for a little while now. The LG Optimus S is the first handset here in the States to sport the Optimus brand name. All three devices are going to be Sprint ID ready.

The main pull is Sprint’s ID Pack, which will allow customers to have a brand new way to customize their devices. The idea behind the Sprint ID Pack is a way for customers to download packs of applications, based on your particular interest. If you like ESPN, there’s an ID for that, which you can download and install onto your phone. Once you do, and you add it to a certain homescreen, then that homescreen actually becomes themed. It’s a whole new means of customization, and will show off your particular interests, in a theme and app packages, in a whole new way. And, if you’re wanting a Spanish variation of an application, Latin America Company will be supplying app packages with Spanish language support.

As far as partners go, Sprint has announced that they will be working with ESPN, Disney, Oprah, Amazon, StubHub, E! Entertainment, and the Home Shopping Network to bring Sprint ID Packs to these new devices. Information is still coming through the pipe, so stay tuned. Check out the video below of Sprint ID in action.

Verizon’s 4G plans were set to get unveiled today, and sure enough, Big Red’s newly appointed President and COO, Lowell McAdam, has taken the stage at CTIA and dropped a pretty big bomb on those listening. Unlike the 30 cities we had heard in the month previous, it looks like Verizon has expanded to almost ten more cities. What’s more, their push for LTE will hit hard in the smartphone market during the first half of 2011, as McAdam has announced that there will be plenty of handsets to choose from when the time comes.

During McAdam’s time on the stage, he announced that Verizon won’t launch in 30 cities, but actually 38. And, what’s better, is that those 38 cities will actually get the LTE green light as soon as Verizon hits the switch (which is still missing a date, unfortunately). But, the real kicker comes in the semi-announcement for the LTE-based devices that will be showing up next year.

McAdam said that, come CES 2011 (which is in January), the company will show off “half-a-dozen” LTE-based handsets and tablets, all manufactured by the top OEMs in the world. And, all of those goodies will be available in the first half of 2011. While he didn’t go into detail, there’s no surprise there, as the company will need to have something to announce at CES. So, stay tuned. The 4G war is about to heat up, soon enough. And, for all the gory details (including city and airport listings) check out the press release below.

Press Release

BASKING RIDGE, NJ, and SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Verizon underscored its rapid deployment of the world’s first large-scale 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) network today from the CTIA Enterprise & Applications™ 2010 conference. Lowell McAdam, president and chief operating officer of Verizon, detailed the company’s major network launch in 38 major metropolitan areas, covering more than 110 million Americans, by the end of the year. In addition, the company is launching 4G LTE in more than 60 commercial airports coast to coast – both the airports within the launch areas plus airports in other key cities.

McAdam said, “We are driven by the vision to provide ubiquitous wireless broadband connectivity and mobility to rural and urban Americans alike. With our initial 4G LTE launch, we will immediately reach more than one-third of all Americans where they live, right from the start. And, we will quickly introduce 4G LTE throughout the Verizon coverage area.”

McAdam highlighted the metropolitan areas for the initial launch, which include:

Large sections of the Northeast Corridor, including Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. as well as Rochester, New York
Throughout Miami and south Florida, Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and New Orleans as well as Charlotte, North Carolina and Nashville, Tennessee
Chicagoland, St. Louis, the Twin Cities, Pittsburgh and major cities in Ohio
Major population centers in California as well as Seattle, Phoenix, Denver and Las Vegas
(A list of all metropolitan areas and airports is located at the end of the news release.)

Verizon Wireless is building its 4G LTE network with the same commitment to performance and reliability for which it has long been recognized. Verizon Wireless’ laser focus on reliability is based on rigid engineering standards and a disciplined deployment approach year after year.

Enterprise users, businesses and individuals can immediately benefit from Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network this year. While Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network promises much more than speed, the first application gives employees the ability to work at significantly faster speeds and improved latency, increasing productivity and the opportunity to get work done where their business takes them.

McAdam continued, “Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network will also be available in the commercial airports in the 38 metropolitan areas, plus we’re launching airports in other key cities coast to coast, giving road warriors added coverage when they travel. Every time we’ve built a next generation network, our customers have seen real benefits to their bottom lines. Taking advantage of the first large-scale LTE network on the globe gives our customers a competitive advantage.”

Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE rollout positions the company to be the global leader in 4G LTE deployment. Verizon Wireless expects 4G LTE average data rates to be 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2 to 5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments. These speeds are significantly faster than Verizon Wireless and other wireless providers’ current or promised 3G network speeds.

By leveraging its 700 MHz spectrum for LTE deployment in the United States, Verizon Wireless is capable of quickly deploying a high-quality wireless broadband network with excellent coverage. The company is currently installing LTE equipment at existing cell sites and switching centers around the United States as part of its extensive, ongoing investment in its voice and data network infrastructure.

In addition to the 38 major metropolitan areas, Verizon Wireless is launching its 4G LTE network in West Lafayette, Ind., home of Purdue University. The public university is using several innovative software applications on Verizon Wireless’ 3G network that improve student engagement and success, and Verizon Wireless is working with Purdue to explore the next phase of how 4G LTE technology can improve e-learning across the nation.

Visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte for more information about Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network.

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Initial Major Metropolitan Area Deployment
Akron, Ohio
Athens, Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia
Baltimore, Maryland
Boston, Massachusetts
Charlotte, North Carolina
Chicago, Illinois
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Dallas, Texas
Denver, Colorado
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Houston, Texas
Jacksonville, Florida
Las Vegas, Nevada
Los Angeles, California
Miami, Florida
Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minnesota
Nashville, Tennessee
New Orleans, Louisiana
New York, New York
Oakland, California
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Orlando, Florida
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Phoenix, Arizona
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Rochester, New York
San Antonio, Texas
San Diego, California
San Francisco, California
San Jose, California
Seattle/Tacoma, Washington
St. Louis, Missouri
Tampa, Florida
Washington, D.C.
West Lafayette, Indiana
West Palm Beach, Florida

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Initial Commercial Airport Deployment (Airport Name, City, State)
Austin-Bergstrom International, Austin, Texas
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshal, Glen Burnie, Maryland
Bob Hope, Burbank, California
Boeing Field/King County International, Seattle, Washington
Charlotte/Douglas International, Charlotte, North Carolina
Chicago Midway International, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago O’Hare International, Chicago, Illinois
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International, Covington, Kentucky
Cleveland-Hopkins International, Cleveland, Ohio
Dallas Love Field, Dallas, Texas
Dallas/Fort Worth International, Fort Worth, Texas
Denver International, Denver, Colorado
Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
George Bush Intercontinental/Houston, Houston, Texas
Greater Rochester International, Rochester, New York
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Atlanta, Georgia
Honolulu International, Honolulu, Hawaii
Jacksonville International, Jacksonville, Florida
John F. Kennedy International, New York, New York
John Wayne Airport-Orange County, Santa Ana, California
Kansas City International, Kansas City, Missouri
La Guardia, New York, New York
Lambert-St. Louis International, St. Louis, Missouri
Laurence G. Hanscom Field, Bedford, Massachusetts
Long Beach/Daugherty Field, Long Beach, California
Los Angeles International, Los Angeles, California
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International, Metairie, Louisiana
McCarran International, Las Vegas, Nevada
Memphis International, Memphis, Tennessee
Metropolitan Oakland International, Oakland, California
Miami International, Miami, Florida
Minneapolis-St. Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Nashville International, Nashville, Tennessee
New Castle, Wilmington, North Carolina
Newark Liberty International, Newark, New Jersey
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International, San Jose, California
North Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada
Orlando International, Orlando, Florida
Orlando Sanford International, Sanford, Florida
Palm Beach International, West Palm Beach, Florida
Philadelphia International, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Phoenix Sky Harbor International, Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, Mesa, Arizona
Pittsburgh International, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Port Columbus International, Columbus, Ohio
Portland International, Portland, Oregon
Rickenbacker International, Columbus, Ohio
Ronald Reagan Washington National, Arlington, Virginia
Sacramento International, Sacramento, California
Salt Lake City International, Salt Lake City, Utah
San Antonio International, San Antonio, Texas
San Diego International, San Diego, California
San Francisco International, San Francisco, California
Seattle-Tacoma International, Seattle, Washington
St. Augustine, Saint Augustine, Florida
St. Petersburg-Clearwater International, Clearwater, Florida
Tampa International, Tampa, Florida
Teterboro, Teterboro, New Jersey
Trenton Mercer, Trenton, New Jersey
Washington Dulles International, Dulles International Airport, Washington, D.C.
Will Rogers World, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
William P. Hobby, Houston, Texas

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

CTIA Day -1: Arrive in Las Vegas a full day and a half early, as the day before the show is often full of trade shows and meetings. Not this year. I looked into moving to a later flight and spending another day with my family, but the flights were all overbooked. Discover that there are people coming to this town for vacations. Really? Who knew. Car rental place promises eternal damnation if I don’t take the extra insurance. Don’t take the extra insurance anyway.

Park in my usual spot in the Hilton’s North parking garage. Yes, I’m here often enough to have a usual spot. Strikes me that this is really sad. Laugh at the couple walking hand-in-hand trying to figure out what entertainment the Hilton offers (answer: none. They killed the Star Trek Experience and even Barry Manilow pulled up shop to moved to a rival venue). Check into hotel and start writing a report under embargo on Palm’s Pre Plus and Pixi Plus coming to AT&T. Make mistake of turning on TV, get nowhere on the report.

CTIA Day 0: Spend most of the day holed up in the hotel catching up on email and non-CTIA-related reports. Shut down in late afternoon to head to the Bellagio for a Motorola dinner. Walk about a mile inside the hotel (literally) trying to find the right ballroom. Discover later that there was a much shorter route – and I’ve been to the ballrooms in this hotel at least a dozen times before. The dinner was basically an informal way to introduce the Motorola i1 Android phone for Sprint’s iDEN (Nextel) network. The i1 could be mistaken for the CLIQ XT at T-Mobile – I had one on hand for comparison – though it has been ruggedized somewhat. Pouring water on it did no damage, but I was asked to refrain from dunking it in the water cup (take a note: analysts make terrible dinner companions). The i1 should do fairly well; there are still a lot of people on the iDEN network who are looking for something other than the single RIM BlackBerry Sprint offers.

Left the dinner early to head to the Renaissance for ShowStoppers. Discover I missed meeting Dirty Jobs’ Mike Rowe at Motorola. Oh well. Showstoppers is one of two evening events geared towards press and analysts; it’s a large room with vendor tables staffed by senior PR execs and product managers, and can be the best way to see a lot of products and build relationships with the companies. Unfortunately, building relationships was all I did at this particular event, as there wasn’t much new to see.

From there I drove over to the Venetian and followed the giant deceptive billboards to the Tao (it’s just a regular nightclub; I have yet to see the bare-backed woman in the ads) for Verizon Wireless’ low key party. At the Fall CTIA party I had a terrific conversation with Verizon CEO Lowell McAdams without any PR handlers around, but this time I spent most of my time talking to the PR handlers themselves.

Back to the hotel and a few more minutes of writing the Palm report before heading to bed.

CTIA Day 1: With my staff attending the keynotes, I headed straight to carrier meetings and press conferences at the convention center. After meetings at one end of the convention center, walked to the other end of the convention for Samsung’s gala Galaxy S launch. I can’t describe how happy I was to find that the wacky dance troupe from Barcelona was not back for an encore; instead, a troupe put on a multimedia play showing a day in the life of a Galaxy S user that was surprisingly effective. The Galaxy S has an amazing screen, but perhaps more amazing is that the software Samsung is adding to Android 2.1 actually appears to enhance the overall user experience, something I can’t say for TouchWiz on the Behold II. After getting some hands-on time with a unit and coming away impressed, I walked to the other end of the convention for a T-Mobile presentation on its HDPA+ network.

T-Mobile had a small room and no chairs because analysts and journalists like walking and standing all day. T-Mobile claims that its HSPA+ network will be able to download files as fast as rivals’ 4G networks, and it is just a software upgrade for its existing base stations, unlike WiMAX or LTE. They showed off a nice little data stick and a Dell netbook with HSPA+ capabilities. I have two problems with T-Mobile’s message here: 1) it’s great that HSPA+ is just a software upgrade, but just like its competitors, it hasn’t been broadly deployed yet and there are no handsets that take advantage of it, 2) I get the feeling that consumers aren’t going to buy a marketing message that goes, “our 3G network is faster than their 4G network for file downloads” because 4 is a bigger number than 3, and who really cares about file downloads? Are people really downloading files all day to their phones?

I then walked all the way back to the other end of the convention center again for Sprint’s big press conference. First thing you notice: no chairs here, either. Then the music hits ear-splitting levels because event people seem to believe this will pump you up and make you more receptive to the message to come. In actual fact, it makes it harder to hear the message to come because you have been temporarily been rendered deaf. Sprint’s message was worth hearing, and boiled down to, “our 4G network is faster than their 3G network, and we’ve got an insane phone, HTC’s EVO 4G, that can use the network to do cool things, like watching YouTube in HD.” (Of course, if you want to download files for some reason, you can do that, too.) Sprint did a great job showing how the combination of high end hardware and a fast network can create a unique user experience, and the EVO 4G launch was clearly the high point of the show.

However, the show was not yet over, and it was time to walk halfway back to the other end of the convention center again, this time for a quick meeting with an OS vendor and then on to moderate a panel discussion about why we have a dozen mobile operating systems. Goes well.

Out for a quick dinner, and on to Pepcom’s Mobile Focus, which is a lot like Showstoppers only with more handset vendors. I had missed a Kyocera analyst event while I was doing the panel, so I stopped by their table for some quick hands on time with the new Zio (an undifferentiated Android phone, but one that could cause RIM some trouble in the prepaid market). I then moved to Dell’s table where an Aero was sitting on the table next to Dell’s new Android phones for Brazil and China. Unfortunately, Dell wouldn’t allow the Aero to be powered up, so here’s what I know: It’s a thin, plastic device running Android [unknown] version with an [unknown] user interface overlay with [unknown] features and is coming to AT&T at [unknown] date at [unknown] price. When a client asked what my analytical option was, I replied with [unknown] insights.

At HTC’s table, they confirm that an HD2 is on the way to my house. That’s great, but I could really have used it at the show – it comes preloaded with the Transformers movie, which I have not seen but it has to be better than the terrible drama Continental is showing on the West-to-East route on the way home. At Sony Ericsson’s table, get hands on time with all the phones launched last month at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona; I missed the launch event there because Samsung scheduled its Wave press insanity at the same time. I already have an XPERIA X10, so it was a bit of a shock to see the X10 mini. This isn’t a smaller version of the X10, it’s a Honey-I-Shrunk-The-Phone version of the X10. I wonder if any of the X10’s user experience can translate to such a small form factor. Even the full size phones aren’t necessarily that big – the Vivaz is a wisp of a phone that does not look like it is big enough to have HD video recording capabilities.

I skipped further evening festivities to return to my room, attempt to write that Palm report again, and pass out.

CTIA Day 2: I skipped a breakfast meeting where Samsung talked LTE and instead actually finished the Palm report, then started writing up the EVO 4G before heading over to the convention center for late morning meetings. The first one was with a silicon vendor in the meeting room area, which is at the absolute back of Central Hall. Next, it was halfway back to the North Hall for AT&T’s annual press and analyst lunch. You know what’s great about lunch meetings? No, not the food – I keep strictly kosher and don’t eat at most of these events – but you’re pretty much guaranteed to have chairs. AT&T switches things up and doesn’t talk about the speed of its network at all, focusing instead on devices: it has the highest smartphone penetration rate of any carrier in the world, and the rest of its lineup has been overtaken by “QMDs,” which sounds like a weapon stockpiled by dictators, but is actually AT&T’s term for QWERTY featurephones. AT&T also showed off a tablet not made by Apple, and AT&T is making a serious push into connecting every device you can buy at Best Buy. Seriously, that’s Glen Lurie’s goal for his next performance review. Good luck, Glen!

Unfortunately, I had to leave early to make my next meeting with a handset vendor whose booth is way in the front of Central Hall. While walking the half mile or so, AGAIN, it occurs to me that this is the first time I have set foot on in the Expo at all. I didn’t actually have a chance to see any of the booths at that point because that meeting was followed by two others with a regional U.S. carrier and a distributor. On my way out to get dinner I was waylaid by representatives from two clients; we catch up, they ask for a recap of the show so far, and we tell funny stories to each other until my brain points out that if I get dinner I will not collapse from hunger. And, as a bonus, I will get to sit down.

After dinner, it’s off to a 3 hour Nokia strategy event for analysts where Nokia does a credible job of explaining its Symbian roadmap but doesn’t inspire confidence that the company will be a force in North America any time soon.

After this, several members of my team head to AT&T’s party, but I go back to the hotel to do more writing and pack up for the return flight.

CTIA Day 3: Scramble to edit staff reports on Samsung’s Galaxy S and Kyocera’s Zio before heading to the convention center for one last meeting. Look at my automatically-generated boarding pass and realize that my flight boarding time has been pushed up, so I cancel my morning vendor meeting. Then Continental delays the flight. The meeting is back on, but I don’t want to risk missing the flight in case the delay is reduced, so I run the entire way to the convention center and back. Get to the airport fairly quickly (if you use I-15 and ignore the signs to the airport, you can cut the drive to the rental car return area significantly) and encounter no hassles returning the car, which is mildly miraculous. Security lines are long, but I’m through with plenty of time to sit for hours with Eric Zeman of Phonescoop while Continental finds a plane that flies properly. The 4:50 flight boards before our 2:20 flight. Once on board, the flight attendant asks us to turn off all BlackBerries, blueberries, strawberries, boisenberries, and Halle Berries. Cute. I tweet, “Cue Sheryl Crow – I’m Leaving Las Vegas” and shut down.

We’ve collected the cities that are part of the LTE build-up, along with the companies they’re pairing with in those parts of the nation, and compiled a list for you, based on Verizon Wireless’ official announcement today. So, read over the list, and find out whether or not you’re hunkered down in a location that’s going to benefit from the faster network.

• Boston and Seattle: Anritsu’s BTS Master
• Nevada: CenturyLink
• North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia: Conterra Broadband
• Southest region; Dukenet
• Ohio and Michigan: FiberTower
• Carolinas: Palmettonet
• South region: Paradigm Telecom, INC
• West region: QWEST
• (parts of) Minnesota: Telecom Transport Management, INC
• Georgia and Alabama: USCarrier Telecom

As you can see from the list, there are a few repeats thrown in there. No, we didn’t do that to test you at the end of the article. Multiple companies are involved with some regions, because some companies are working on the backhaul of the upgrading infrastructure, while some are working on the networking itself, along with providing fiber and installation. A lot of companies are involved, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see more get announced before the end of the year. We’re glad to see that Verizon Wireless is moving forward with their LTE implementation. After all, we wouldn’t want WiMAX to get all the glory, now would we?

Furthermore, Verizon Wireless has finished up their trials in Boston and Seattle, which tells us that something good is probably coming from those trials. With them finished, what is Verizon going to do next? They’re going to initiate more trials, in more places across the country. These new trials will be “friendlier” than the previous, private tests, but we are waiting to hear more on what that, exactly entails.

[via Verizon]

It has a whole slew of activities for you: social networking, download books, navigation, email and instant messaging, music, and video and picture sharing. As you can see, it would seem that AT&T has certainly covered all of their bases with the OpenPeak Tablet, making sure that you can get all your services right from one device. Especially when you add things like energy compliant devices, along with home security management capabilities. Sounds like a dream come true to us.

Finally, but definitely noteworthy, is the fact that the OpenPeak Tablet is going to have its own electronic store, called the OpenPeak App Shop. (It’s got a ring to it, doesn’t it?) With the App Shop, you’ll be able to download a wide array of multimedia applications, along with several home management applications. We’re most interested to see these home management applications, to see where AT&T is going to take this burgeoning market. We’re still waiting for some additional information about the device, but hopefully this video we shot at the keynote will tide you over until then.

Boca Raton, Florida, Dallas, Texas, March 24, 2010

ShareThis
AT&T* and OpenPeak Inc, a leading provider of multimedia touch-screen devices and device management platforms, today announced a powerful, multipurpose computing tablet device ideal for the home and on the go equipped with AT&T mobile broadband wireless service. The thin, elegant device, to be based on OpenPeak’s ultra-sleek OpenTablet™ touch-screen design, will combine communications, entertainment and home management capabilities, and will be available nationwide via multiple retail distribution channels expected later this year. The OpenTablet is based on Intel’s next generation handheld platform, codenamed “Moorestown,” which delivers outstanding performance at low power.

Anticipated to be a breakthrough in versatility and value, the tablet will feature AT&T wireless connectivity via the nation’s fastest 3G network, as well as 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Consumers will be able to use the device for social networking, downloading books, navigation, email and instant messaging, along with music, video and photo sharing. By adding home security systems and energy consumption monitoring applications, homeowners will be able to enjoy quick and easy access to a total home dashboard.

OpenTablet includes both OpenPeak Device Management Services and access to the OpenPeak App Shop. Device management allows providers to remotely provision, monitor and update the tablet over a broadband network to ensure the smoothest, most up-to-date user experience. The OpenPeak App Shop brings consumers and third-party developers together to enable a wide range of multimedia and home management applications.

“OpenTablet is an exciting multipurpose device with all the benefits and flexibility of a wirelessly connected personal computing and entertainment device,” said Glenn Lurie, president, emerging devices, resale and partnerships, AT&T. “When you combine the capabilities of OpenTablet with AT&T’s 3G mobile broadband service and AT&T Wi-Fi service, we’re able to provide consumers wireless access to content they most desire, right at their fingertips.”

Powered by an Intel Atom chipset, the tablet features a high-resolution 7-inch multi-touch TFT LCD screen with LED backlighting. It also includes HDMI output for connection to today’s HD televisions, as well as dual cameras for capturing both high-definition video and still images. An onboard USB interface and MicroSD slot further expands the device’s connectivity.

At just 9 inches by 5 inches and only .59” thick, the tablet is as slim and unobtrusive as a photo frame, and weighs just 1.15 pounds. It will be sold with a desktop docking station for convenient viewing and recharging when not in the user’s hands.

“We strongly believe that people are ready for a thin, easy to use device that brings together virtually every entertainment, communications and management function anyone could want,” said Dan Gittleman, CEO of OpenPeak. “Our agreement with AT&T unites a number of powerful technologies, resulting in a product that will provide a variety of exciting uses, for many different types of consumers.”

“The Intel® Atom™ processor is helping to unleash a wave of industry innovation across a range of new intelligent devices,” said Anand Chandrasekher, Intel senior vice president and general manager of the company’s Ultra Mobility Group. “OpenPeak’s tablet design based on Intel’s upcoming Moorestown platform is a fantastic example of the technology’s flexibility and scalability and, when combined with AT&T’s network, will make it easier for people to access the information that matters most to them.”

AT&T’s 3G mobile broadband network and OpenPeak’s innovative devices will enable consumers to monitor home energy usage, set a thermostat remotely, arm or disarm home security, sync family schedules, check movie times, listen to music, watch videos, get weather updates and more.

The OpenTablet-based product is expected to be available in late 2010. For more about the OpenTablet, go to www.openpeak.com.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About OpenPeak
OpenPeak designs and develops end-to-end managed platforms and devices that enable service providers, utilities, applications developers, and content owners to interact with customers in their homes, offices, and while traveling. OpenPeak’s engaging multi-media touch-screen devices can be used to provide application-driven services including energy management, telephony, digital media, Internet content, messaging and a wide range of information and entertainment apps. The company’s flexible interactive software framework and SDK leverage common programming protocols for ease in development and delivery of new applications. OpenPeak’s Device Management Services allow providers to provision and manage customer devices remotely, while a fully partitioned white label App Shop offers revenue sharing opportunities and individual content management controls. For more information visit www.openpeak.com.

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. AT&T offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verseSM and AT&T | DIRECTVSM brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T’s Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations are known for their leadership in directory publishing and advertising sales.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

© 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 3G service not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

[via AT&T]

Up to ten phones can be registered to a single 3G Microcell, managed via an online interface, and up to four can be actively using the femtocell at any one time.  While there’s no ongoing service charge for the 3G Microcell itself, AT&T will still count any minutes used against the cellphone making them, which always seems a little unfair given you’re basically paying them to use your own broadband for VoIP.

Still, if you reckon you’ll be making frequent use of the femtocell, AT&T will offer a $19.99 per month Family Talk plan that allows unlimited voice calls through the 3G Microcell.  There are also various rebates if you take out such plans or upgrade your AT&T DSL connection at the same time as ordering the 3G Microcell, which can potentially make the device free.

Press Release:

AT&T Announces Nationwide Plans for 3G Microcell

Femtocell Service from AT&T Supports 3G Voice and Data, Will Offer Attractive Price Point and Plan Options

Dallas, Texas, March 24, 2010

AT&T* today announced that AT&T 3G MicroCell plans to begin its national roll out beginning in mid April, with new markets activating in cities across the continental U.S. for the next several months. AT&T 3G MicroCell is an innovative solution that allows residential customers to route wireless phone calls and data connections (or sessions) across a home broadband connection. This solution is designed to benefit customers who live in homes that have coverage impediments that consistently interrupt wireless spectrum, such as dense wall and roof construction or unfavorable terrain.

AT&T 3G MicroCell is the only femtocell to support both 3G data and voice services. Developed in conjunction with Cisco and in a public trial in select markets since September, AT&T 3G MicroCell is available for a one-time cost of $149.99.

Consumers with AT&T 3G MicroCell will be able to easily activate the device the same day it is purchased, thanks to easy, self-install instructions. Technical support is available for customers who need it.

Consumers manage AT&T 3G MicroCell though their online MyWireless account at www.att.com/mywireless. Through this online management, only those phones chosen by the customer may use the MicroCell. Customers may define up to 10 lines to have access and up to four may operate on it simultaneously. Minutes used through the MicroCell affect only the account of the phone making the call – there is no requirement to purchase separate service for the 3G MicroCell.

In addition, AT&T will offer a companion rate plan option for MicroCell customers – especially customers on Family Talk plans — who want to supplement their existing voice plans. For $19.99 a month, individual or Family Talk customers can make unlimited calls through a 3G MicroCell, without using minutes in their monthly wireless voice plan.

Consumers who select 3G MicroCell calling plans at purchase are also eligible to receive a $100 mail-in-rebate toward the purchase of AT&T 3G MicroCell – effectively making the device about $50. Customers who also purchase a new line of broadband service with AT&T (DSL or U-verse 1.5MB or higher) are also eligible for $50 via mail-in-rebate– effectively making the device about $100. If a customer is eligible for both rebate options, the customer will be able to get the device for $0, after mail-in rebate.

For more information on AT&T 3G MicroCell, visit www.att.com/3gmicrocell. For the complete array of AT&T offerings, visit www.att.com.

*AT&T imposes: a Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge of up to $1.25 to help defray costs incurred in complying with obligations and charges imposed by State and Federal telecom regulations; State and Federal Universal Service charges; and surcharges for government assessments on AT&T. These fees are not taxes or government-required charges.

1 Promotional Card from AT&T: Price of 3G Microcell is $149.99. Receive $100 mail-in rebate via AT&T Promotional Card with enrollment in AT&T Unlimited MicroCell Calling, and $50 mail-in rebate via AT&T Promotional Card with new AT&T DSL 1.5 Mbps or greater subscription or U-Verse High Speed Internet Access subscription. Allow 60 days for fulfillment. Card may be used only in the U.S. and is valid for 120 days wherever major credit cards are accepted. May be used to pay wireless bill. Not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at ATMs or gas pumps. Some restrictions and other charges apply. See terms at store or at att.com/wirelessrebate. Card request must be postmarked within 45 days of activation and you must be a customer for 30 consecutive days to receive card. Cannot be combined with promotions or discounts other than those described here. Offer available while supplies last.

2 Limited-time offer. Other conditions & restrictions apply. See contract & rate plan brochure for details. Subscriber must live & have a mailing addr. within AT&T’s owned wireless network coverage area. Equipment price & avail may vary by mrk & may not be available from independent retailers.

3 Sales tax calculated based on price of unactivated equipment.

4 Standard usage rates apply to text messaging and Internet browsing, depending on your plan.

5 High Speed Internet service and AT&T post-paid wireless plan of $39.99 or higher required. Unlimited talk option available for additional monthly charge. Device must be operated in a location where AT&T is authorized to provide wireless service. It is not compatible with other wireless systems. The maximum coverage of the AT&T 3G Micro Cell™ is approximately 5000 square feet. Actual coverage will be limited by the density of obstructions. Device may not support all location based wireless services or video share services. In the event of a service disruption, you will not be able to access E911 service using the Microcell. Internet access serviceand usage generated by 3G MicroCell are subject to applicable charges from your ISP. Normal charges apply for mobility data plans and features when using the AT&T 3G MicroCell™. AT&T Unlimited MicroCell Calling talk feature includes inbound anytime minutes and outbound anytime minute domestic calls made to the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands.

6 Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

While consumers will get to play with the SCH-r900, MetroPCS will have to get to grips with Samsung Mobile’s infrastructure and IP multimedia subsystem tech, which will form the backbone of the new LTE network.  That adds up to real-time streaming video-on-demand and super-fast browsing speeds.

The MetroPCS LTE network should begin to roll out in the second half of 2010, though so far while the carrier has said it plans to cover “several” metropolitan markets, it has only named the Las Vegas metropolitan area.  We’ve still yet to catch sight of the SCH-r900 itself, too, though we’ll be keeping our eyes peeled at CTIA Wireless; the photo above is of an unnamed Samsung LTE device spotted all the way back at CTIA Wireless 2009 by PC Mag.

Press Release:

Samsung Mobile Announces Commercial LTE 4G Infrastructure and Handset at CTIA Wireless

LTE Infrastructure and Handset to Launch Commercial Service in the Second Half of 2010 for the MetroPCS Las Vegas Metropolitan Area

LAS VEGAS, Mar 24, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile)(1), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S.( 2), introduced today at International CTIA Wireless 2010 in Las Vegas one of the first commercially available LTE network infrastructures and LTE-enabled, multi-mode, CDMA, 4G handset, the Samsung SCH-r900.

Samsung Mobile’s advanced commercial LTE network products will allow wireless operators like MetroPCS Communications, Inc. (PCS 7.12, -0.08, -1.11%) , the nation’s leading provider of unlimited, flat-rate, no signed contract wireless communications service, to provide advanced services using LTE compatible handsets as well as new and innovative network solutions. LTE makes possible services such as real-time streaming video on demand (VOD), music downloads, enhanced Web browsing capabilities at high download speeds, and utilizing voice communications to increase productivity and access downloadable applications. MetroPCS plans to initially deploy a commercial LTE network in various metropolitan markets, including the Las Vegas metropolitan area where Samsung Mobile LTE network products will be used, in the second half of 2010.

Samsung Mobile’s commercial LTE network products leverage years of 4G orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) commercial network experience and have flexible bandwidth support of 1.4 to 20 MHz standards. Samsung Mobile’s network infrastructure supports a wide portfolio of enhanced node B (eNB) products, including rack types, remote radio heads, picocells and distributed antenna system (DAS) hosts.

Samsung Mobile’s network solutions feature a scalable, single rack, enhanced packet core (EPC) along with IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) products, to support rapid deployment and end-to-end quality control through devices.

Samsung Mobile’s infrastructure network products also feature an open architecture which supports multi-vendor inter-operation through initiatives such as the LTE Strategic Test Initiative (LSTI). Samsung Mobile’s network infrastructure will incorporate high efficiency multimode amplifiers and energy saving mode.

The Samsung SCH-r900 will be one of the first commercially available LTE-enabled, multi-mode, CDMA, 4G handsets in the United States when MetroPCS launches the handset in the second half of 2010. The introduction of the Samsung SCH-r900 is part of Samsung Mobile’s collaboration with MetroPCS to deliver advanced LTE handsets, services and infrastructure.

About Samsung Telecommunications America

Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsunwireless.com.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2009 consolidated sales of US$116.7 billion. Employing approximately 157,700 people in 185 offices across 65 countries, the company consists of seven independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Semiconductor and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT- LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

About MetroPCS Communications, Inc.

Dallas-based MetroPCS Communications, Inc. (PCS 7.12, -0.08, -1.11%) is a provider of unlimited wireless communications service for a flat-rate with no signed contract. MetroPCS is the fifth largest facilities-based wireless carrier in the United States based on number of subscribers served and has access to licenses covering a population of approximately 144 million people in many of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. As of December 31, 2009, MetroPCS had over 6.6 million subscribers. For more information please visit www.metropcs.com.

(1)Samsung Mobile is proud to provide ENERGY STAR-qualified power adapters with its mobile phones and accessories. ENERGY STAR qualified products use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment. Products that have earned the ENERGY STAR meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy.

(2)Number one mobile phone provider in the U.S. claim for Samsung Mobile based upon reported shipment data, according to Strategy Analytics Q4 2009 U.S. Market Share Handset Shipments Report.

Unfortunately, while the press release makes it sound like InvisiTrack uses actual TV broadcasts for triangulation, in actual fact you’ll need both a new receiver in your mobile device and to be near at least two transmitters to go with it.  Still, in ad-hoc mode the receivers themselves act as transmitters, creating a mesh network from which position of all involved can be extrapolated from just one location lock.  While 10-times the range of existing triangulation systems sounds great on paper, we’ll wait until InvisiTrack LS gets picked up by mobile device manufacturers before we get too excited.

Press Release:

InvisiTrack™ Utilizes TV Bands to Bring Accurate Location Positioning Indoors

Introducing InvisiTrack Location System (LS) – The World’s First Accurate and Reliable Indoor/Outdoor Low-Frequency Location Positioning, Ranging and Navigation Solution That Requires No Fixed Infrastructure

CTIA Wireless 2010
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–InvisiTrack, Inc. today announced its InvisiTrack™ Location System (LS), the world’s first accurate and reliable indoor/outdoor location positioning, ranging and navigation solution that requires no fixed infrastructure for effective operation. InvisiTrack LS is available now for integration with mobile phones and TV band-based products.

“We started InvisiTrack with a vision for creating a location technology that provides accurate location fixes with equal effectiveness both indoors and outdoors, enabling users to navigate seamlessly between both environments”
InvisiTrack LS advances the state-of-the-art in location positioning technology by maximizing the superior propagation characteristics of low-frequency radio signals to provide accurate and reliable location fixes indoors. This solution differs from legacy location methods, such as those designed to work with Cell-ID, GPS, A-GPS and Wi-Fi signals, which do not provide accurate and reliable location fixes indoors due to limitations imposed by the propagation characteristics of high–frequency radio signals.

GPS enables users to navigate to the main address of a shopping mall; LBS can provide a list of what or who is inside. InvisiTrack LS vastly improves this experience by enabling users to navigate to their destinations inside the shopping mall and find whomever or whatever they are looking for. InvisiTrack LS also enables mobile network operators and online advertisers to deliver precisely targeted location-based advertisements, finally making possible effective pay-per-walk-by advertising.

In 2008, the FCC opened up sections of radio frequency spectrum, called TV bands, for public use. TV bands between 512 and 698 MHz offer significant benefits for location positioning and tracking indoors, compared with higher frequency services like Wi-Fi, operating at 2.4 GHz. TV bands provide increased range for signal propagation and detection, leading to significantly greater effectiveness at penetrating buildings and other large structures. InvisiTrack LS utilizes TV bands to increase signal range by up to a factor of ten over that of legacy location methods, to work in many environments where higher frequency solutions do not, and to provide accurate location fixes with resolutions of less than 3 meters indoors and 1 meter outdoors without need for fixed infrastructure.

The InvisiTrack research and development team has taken a unique approach in developing InvisiTrack LS, basing it on three complementary innovations, each of which is patented (or has patents pending) in the U.S., Europe and Asia:

Narrow Bandwidth Ranging: To maximize performance in challenging outdoor environments and improve location accuracy indoors, InvisiTrack developed a range-signal boosting technology that enables InvisiTrack LS to operate at up to 10 times greater range than other location methods in use today This patented hardware and software technique enables InvisiTrack LS to make accurate distance measurements by using narrow bandwidth ranging signals, thus allowing use of low-frequency radio bands, such as VHF and UHF TV bands, while maintaining compliance with FCC regulations.
Multipath Error Correction: One of the foremost problems when attempting to navigate in metropolitan areas with buildings and other large structures that reflect radio signals is an effect known as multipath error propagation, a leading cause of inaccurate location readings. InvisiTrack LS overcomes this problem by using a unique signal design and high-resolution maximum likelihood estimate methods to calculate the precise range between InvisiTrack LS-enabled devices even if the devices are separated by obstacles, such as walls, floors, buildings and other reflective structures. This method is asynchronous and does not require fixed infrastructure for accessing and maintaining a synchronized clock source.
Virtual Triangulation: By simply moving an InvisiTrack LS-enabled device, such as a smartphone, the user establishes virtual points in space. InvisiTrack LS uses these points to triangulate the position of a tracked target. Virtual Triangulation supports applications requiring both 2D (i.e., latitude and longitude) and 3D (i.e., latitude, longitude and altitude) coordinates, and produces accurate location positioning when using as few as two InvisiTrack LS-enabled devices, unlike other location methods that require three or more clock-synchronized signal points of reference for operation.
“We started InvisiTrack with a vision for creating a location technology that provides accurate location fixes with equal effectiveness both indoors and outdoors, enabling users to navigate seamlessly between both environments,” said Russ Markhovsky, Founder and CEO, InvisiTrack, Inc. “With InvisiTrack Location System, not only have we created ‘The Last Mile of GPS’, but we’ve also opened the door to an entirely new genre of location-based services that will bring new utility to consumers and will tap new revenue streams for first market-mover companies making effective use of the technology.”

A unique feature of InvisiTrack LS is its ability to operate flexibly in ad hoc/mesh and fixed/mesh configurations with encrypted and unencrypted signaling options, supporting a range of location-based services benefitting consumers and businesses, as well as public safety and other government organizations.

Mobile devices configured with InvisiTrack LS offer vast improvements in location functionality, including location positioning, ranging and navigation with seamless traversal indoors and outdoors—notably in areas where legacy location methods have not been effective.

Additional information is provided on the InvisiTrack Web site at www.invisitrack.com.

About InvisiTrack:

Founded in 2005 with support from the State of Maryland and the University of Maryland, InvisiTrack is creator of advanced location positioning, ranging and tracking technologies, including InvisiTrack Location System (LS), the world’s first accurate indoor/outdoor location positioning, ranging and tracking. InvisiTrack is working with leading mobile handset manufacturers, network operators and service providers to bring a new genre of location-based services to consumers, enterprises and government agencies.

So far, the Clear-built 4G network covers 27 “markets”, which you can see at their interactive map here.  Over the course of 2010 Sprint expect to see new coverage in Boston, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Minneapolis, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.  Of course, outside of WiMAX areas the EVO 4G will fall back onto EVDO Rev.A data networks, the speed of which we’re familiar with from the carrier’s existing line-up.

That actually means that relatively few people will be able to enjoy the EVO 4G’s flagship feature; Sprint say over 30m people are covered now, and up to 120m will be by the end of this year, but it pales in comparison to the regular EVDO network.  We’re also unsure of how Sprint will be pricing either the smartphone or its accompanying plans; there’s speculation that WiMAX data will demand some sort of surcharge above Sprint’s regular data plans, and of course if you want to use the MiFi-style connection sharing app there’ll probably be another payment for that.

We’re still excited by the HTV EVO 4G, and we reckon it’s just the shot in the arm that Sprint – and WiMAX – needs in order to fend off the by-now persistent rumors of financial peril.  Still, we wouldn’t be at all surprised if HTC had an HSPA+ version of the EVO 4G – with the same huge capacitive display, Snapdragon processor and high-resolution camera – in their engineering labs, with the added bonus that such a device could work not only on AT&T and T-Mobile USA’s planned networks, but fit in with what’s available in Europe.  That’ll be even faster than WiMAX, potentially.

Should that stop you buying the HTC EVO 4G on Sprint?  Probably not, though we’ll be interested to see what devices cross the wire in the interim period between CTIA Wireless and the EVO 4G’s release over the coming summer.

HTC EVO 4G hands-on demo:

UPDATE 5/24/2010: Full HTC EVO 4G Review

UPDATE 5/20/2010: HTC EVO 4G first-impressions [unboxing video]

Make no mistake, the EVO 4G whips through the OS, whether Android 2.1 itself or the custom HTC UI.  Android really sparkles on a display this big – and bright, and colorful for that matter – and we found ourselves wishing for more than the regular 4×4 icon grid per homescreen pane: you could easily fit more icons and widgets in, without it feeling unduly crowded.

WiMAX coverage for our demo wasn’t as strong as we might have hoped, so we’ll have to reserve judgment on the EVO 4G’s surfing skills.  Still, the ability – in planning, but likely to arrive by the time the phone hits the market – to surf over 4G while simultaneously using the CDMA/EVDO Rev.A connection for voice calls could prove to be a game changer.  The HD2′s narrow row of physical buttons along the bottom of the touchscreen have been replaced by four capacitive keys, and up top there’s a power button plus a volume rocker on the side.  We’re a little disappointed that – given the obvious emphasis on imaging skills what with the 8-megapixel camera – there’s no dedicated camera key on the side, however.

HTC tell us that, despite the extra connectivity options, battery life for the EVO 4G should be roughly in line with what we’re used to from other high-end smartphones; that likely means a daily recharge, which for what’s on offer we can certainly live with.  Frankly, this is the HD2 with Android 2.1 and an even better mobile browsing experience, ticking every box Google-lovers have been crying out for since the Windows Mobile smartphone was first spotted.  Sprint reckon the HTC EVO 4G will drop over Summer 2010, pricing – for either phone or service plans – unknown, so until then check out our hands-on gallery and video!

HTC EVO 4G hands-on!

The HTC EVO 4G is definitely one of, if not the strongest Android-powered handset coming to the market. Despite strong competitors in the Nexus One, and the just-announced Samsung Galaxy S, the HTC manufactured EVO 4G has a leg up in a few key departments. Such as: the 4.3-inch 480×800 TFT LCD display; a Snapdragon QSD8650 1 GHz processor; 1GB of built-in storage along with 512MB of RAM. And while the EVO 4G is obviously based off the HTC HD2, the specs are still angling toward the EVO. The battery is bigger in the EVO 4G than in the HD2, and the camera has taken a significant upgrade to 8MP, with a flash, and 720p video capability. And then, just in case you wanted more, there’s a 1.3MP camera on the front.

The laundry list of features goes on, including 802.11b/g WiFi, Android 2.1, HTC’s much-loved Sense User Interface, and an 8GB MicroSD card included. And that 4G isn’t just a name, either. It’s got full WiMAX capabilities, along with a combination of EV-DO Rev. A. What’s that mean? There’s a chance that this means the EVO can do voice communications and data connection at the same time, much like GSM networks can already do. That’s very good news, and we’re hoping that Sprint can take this feature out of the testing phase. The EVO 4G is also a fully capable mobile hotspot, allowing up to 8 concurrent connections. Oh, and it’s got a kickstand for all that YouTube video watching you’ll be doing.

The Sprint event is still going on right now, and we’ll have some videos, plus hands-on soon. So stay with us as we take a deeper look at the country’s first 3G/4G handset.

Press Release:

World’s First 3G/4G Android Phone, HTC EVOTM 4G, Coming this Summer Exclusively from Sprint

HTC EVO 4G offers one of the most robust multimedia experiences on a wireless phone today; features Android(TM) 2.1, one of the industry’s largest touch-screen displays, 8.0 MP camera, HD video capture, HDMI output,Mobile Hotspot capability and HTC Sense(TM) Pre-registration begins today at www.sprint.com/evo

LAS VEGAS, Mar 23, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Sprint (NYSE: S) and HTC Corporation today announced summer availability of the world’s first 3G/4G Android handset, HTC EVO 4G exclusively from Sprint. HTC EVO 4G delivers a multimedia experience at 4G speeds that is second to none, making it possible to download music, pictures, files, or videos in seconds – not minutes – and watch streaming video on the go with one of the largest pinch-to-zoom displays, at 4.3 inches, in the wireless industry.
Sprint 4G offers a faster wireless experience than any other U.S. national wireless carrier, and Sprint is the only national carrier offering wireless 4G service today in 27 markets. Sprint 4G delivers download speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G1,giving HTC EVO 4G the fastest data speeds of any U.S. wireless device available today.

“Sprint continues to lead the 4G revolution as we introduce HTC EVO 4G to give our customers an experience that is unlike anything available in wireless to date,” said Dan Hesse, Sprint CEO. “Not only is this feature-rich device incredible on our Sprint 3G network, but Sprint 4G speeds will take mobile multimedia, including live video streaming, gaming and picture downloads, to a whole new level.”

Customers will be able to purchase HTC EVO 4G through all Sprint channels and through national retail partners, RadioShack, Best Buy and Walmart, this summer. Pricing will be announced at a later date. Pre-registration begins today at www.sprint.com/evo.

A device beyond compare

HTC EVO 4G delivers a robust list of features, including a 1GHz Qualcomm(R) Snapdragon(TM) processor ensuring a smooth and quick user experience. With dual cameras – an 8.0 megapixel auto-focus camera with HD-capable video camcorder and a forward-facing 1.3 megapixel camera – HTC EVO 4G unleashes the ability to create, stream and watch video that far surpasses expectations of what is possible on a phone today.

With built-in mobile hotspot functionality, HTC EVO 4G allows up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices to share the 4G experience. Users can easily share an Internet connection on the go with a laptop, camera, music player, game unit, video player, or any other Wi-Fi enabled device.

With integrated HD video capture and 4G speeds, HTC EVO 4G makes slow uploads and grainy video a thing of the past. Now, it is possible to post high-quality video to YouTube(TM) or Facebook, or share moments in real time over the Internet live, via Qik. After these videos have been captured, it is easy to share them on an HDTV via an HDMI cable (sold separately).

The custom Web browser is optimized for HTC EVO 4G’s large display and Sprint 4G speeds to deliver a full, no-compromise Internet experience. Adobe Flash technology ensures that rich Internet content, such as embedded video and animation, are displayed the way they are meant to be seen. Pinch-to-zoom and automatic text reflowing provide easy Web page views.

HTC EVO 4G features the newest version of the highly acclaimed HTC Sense user experience. Along with all of the HTC Sense features first introduced on HTC Hero, HTC EVO 4G adds a number of new features, including Friend Stream, which aggregates multiple social communication channels including Facebook and Twitter(TM) into one organized flow of updates; a “Leap” thumbnail view to easily switch between home screen “panels”; the ability to download new, interactive widgets; and a “polite” ringer, which quiets the ringing phone once lifted up.

“HTC and Sprint have a strong history of working together to bring consumers technologies and advancements that make their lives easier,” said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC. “We believe that the HTC EVO 4G represents the best of Sprint and the best of HTC working together to bring an unmatched device to the U.S. This combination of HTC and Sprint innovation will allow people to do even more while on the go, faster than ever on the Sprint 4G network.”

Experience Android at 4G

HTC EVO 4G, the world’s first 3G/4G Android handset, features the latest iteration of the increasingly popular Android platform. Leveraging the Android 2.1 platform, HTC EVO 4G can deliver a wide array of useful new features:

Android 2.1 enables a new way to search with pictures instead of words. Google Goggles(TM) works with everything from books, DVDs and barcodes to landmarks, logos, artwork and even wine labels. A picture taken of the Golden Gate Bridge returns all of the information anyone would need to know about the structure. By just taking a picture of several restaurant options, HTC EVO 4G will provide restaurant reviews to ensure the best choice.
Text messaging and email composition feature built-in voice-to-text technology. By simply pressing a microphone button on the screen, messages can be composed by just speaking, making keeping in touch faster and easier than ever.
Through Android Market(TM), HTC EVO 4G users have access to thousands of useful applications, widgets and games to download and install on their phone, with many more to come.
In addition to today’s Android apps, the performance of which will be enhanced by 4G speed, application developers will be introducing new apps that take advantage of 4G power in new ways – games and communications tools and other apps that bring together video, presence and location simultaneously, and capabilities that haven’t yet been imagined. For example, an application developer might create an app that allows a customer to simultaneously watch a streaming sporting event while pulling down stats and conducting a video chat with a friend.

A Sprint 4G developer guide is available today from the Sprint ADP Web site http://developer.sprint.com. The Sprint 4G developer guide explains how to develop on an Android 2.1 handset and how to take advantage of 4G and unique hardware/software capabilities, including how to use a forward-facing camera in an app; how to use HDMI output; and how to build in network detection (3G, 4G or Wi-Fi) to optimize quality of data in an app. The Sprint 4G developer also will include sample apps and source code that highlight these features. It will supplement the Android 2.1 SDK. As a charter member of the Open Handset Alliance(TM), Sprint is actively engaged with the Android community. Sprint has employed an open Internet approach, and the Sprint Application Developer Program has been providing tools for third-party developers since Sprint first launched the Wireless Web on its phones in 2001.

“Sprint and HTC have come together to propel the Android platform into the 4G world with the introduction of HTC EVO 4G,” said Andy Rubin, vice president, mobile platforms at Google. “The Android platform was developed to give people unmatched mobile connectivity to the Internet. By combining this vision with the promise of Sprint’s first-to-market 4G technology, HTC EVO 4G makes accessing thousands of applications from Android Market, using Google(TM) services like Google Goggles, Google Earth(TM) and the all-new Gesture Search, or simply browsing the Web faster, easier and more enjoyable than ever before.”

Blazing trails with Sprint 4G

As the first national wireless carrier to test, launch and market 4G technology, Sprint made history by launching 4G in Baltimore in September 2008. Today, Sprint 4G covers more than 30 million people and expects to have up to 120 million people covered by the end of 2010.

Sprint currently offers 4G service in 27 markets, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Portland, Ore., San Antonio and Seattle. Following is a comprehensive list of markets by state where Sprint 4G is currently offered: Georgia – Atlanta, Milledgeville; Hawaii – Honolulu, Maui; Idaho – Boise; Illinois – Chicago; Maryland – Baltimore; Nevada – Las Vegas; North Carolina – Charlotte, Greensboro, (along with High Point and Winston-Salem), Raleigh (along with Cary, Chapel Hill and Durham); Oregon – Portland, Salem; Pennsylvania – Philadelphia; Texas – Abilene, Amarillo, Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Killeen/Temple, Lubbock, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Waco, Wichita Falls; Washington – Bellingham, Seattle. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/4G.

In 2010, Sprint expects to launch service in multiple markets, including but not limited to, Boston, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Minneapolis, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Sprint is harnessing the power of 4G as the majority shareholder of Clearwire, the independent company that is building the WiMAX network. Sprint is the only national wireless carrier to offer 4G services on the Clearwire WiMAX network.

There’s also A-GPS, Bluetooth 3.0, USB 2.0 and WiFi b/g/n, while onboard storage will be either 8GB or 16GB.  That can be expanded courtesy of a microSD card slot happy with up to 32GB cards.  Connectivity includes quadband GSM and triband (900/1900/2100) UMTS/HSPA.

All in all it’s a particularly well-specified device, and Samsung are obviously looking to take on the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10 and the Google Nexus One with this new flagship.  Preloaded apps will include Swype, Layar, a DLNA streaming app and the ThinkFree Office viewer.  No word on when it might hit the market, however, beyond “sometime this year”.

[via Android Community]

Press Release:

Samsung Welcomes You to the “Smart Life” with the Global Launch of the Galaxy S

Powered by 4-inch Super AMOLED and the latest version of Android™,
Galaxy S brings rich technology and enhanced mobile experience

LAS VEGAS, March 23, 2010 – Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today introduced the Galaxy S (Model: GT-I9000), a smartphone that makes users’ lives more convenient, more exciting, and more integrated. JK Shin, president and head of Samsung Electronics’ Mobile Communications Business announced the global launch of the Galaxy S at his keynote speech at the International CTIA Wireless 2010. The Galaxy S will be available in Europe, North America, Latin America, Australia, and Asia soon.

The Android-powered Galaxy S incorporates a 4-inch Super AMOLED screen and a 1 GHz application processor that enables vibrant HD videos, rich augmented reality content through Layar Reality Browser, and advanced LBS (Location Based Services). The ‘Social Hub’ provides always-on social networks connectivity allowing users to enjoy communications with their friends, colleagues, and families whenever they want and wherever they are.

The Galaxy S is designed to provide immersive, intelligent and integrated experiences, with the power to enrich people’s lives through best-in-class services and technologies. The Galaxy S will allow users around the world to experience the “Smart Life,” which Samsung anticipates will shift the way that consumers view smartphones and how they interact with them in their daily lives.

The Galaxy S immerses users in a world of rich multimedia. The large 4-inch Super AMOLED display delivers unrivalled screen quality, with less reflection, free viewing angles and super-fast touch-response. The mDNIe (mobile Digital Natural Image engine) – a technology used in Samsung’s best-selling LCD and LED TVs – boosts an even sharper and crisper viewing experience for photos, videos, and e-books. It creates a perfect environment to record, edit and play HD video, to browse the Internet, and to read your favorite e-books. A variety of applications from Android Market™ allows users to even more extend the benefits and excitement of smartphone experience. Plus, users have access to Google™ mobile services, such as Google Search™, Gmail™, and Google Maps™.

Living a “Smart Life” requires intelligence, and the Galaxy S delivers just that by utilizing personal preferences to gather information online that each user needs and wants. With a user-defined daily briefing, lightning-fast processing speeds and location-based search options like Layar Reality Browser – the Galaxy S gives users the information they need wherever and whenever needed. The Galaxy S represents the next level of intelligence in smartphones.

The Galaxy S integrates every aspect of life in a smart and sophisticated way. In addition to wireless integration with a variety of other devices, such as notebooks, TVs and cameras, the highly advanced Social Hub plugs users quickly and conveniently into their complete world of social networking and email.

“The Android-powered Galaxy S will set a new standard for smartphones,” said JK Shin, president and head of Mobile Communications Business. “The Galaxy S is the perfect device for people in all corners of the world who want that extra edge; to be more effective, productive, better connected, and in tune with their smart life – both personal and professional – all in a very easy and simple way.”

Other Key Features

• Daily Briefing: Offers instant access to weather, news, stocks, and the scheduler.
• All Share: Enables inter-device connectivity via DLNA (Digtal Living Network Alliance) technology.
• Home Cradle: Enables use as a digital photo frame, table clock, calendar, and music station.
• Write and go: Jot down an idea first and later decide on a format such as SMS/ MMS, email, calendar or memo.
• Swype: Provides fast and easy way to input text on screen while on-the-move.
• ThinkFree: Apps to view and edit Microsoft Office 2007 documents.
• Smart Alarm: Wakes up with a natural alarm sound and automatically turned-on display light.

The Galaxy S is exhibited at The International CTIA Wireless at booth # 1023.

Note to Editors:
JK Shin, Keynote Speech “Future of the Smartphone is NOW”

At Samsung’s CTIA keynote address this morning, JK Shin unveiled the Galaxy S and discussed the company’s vision for ‘Democratization of Smartphone’. With an increasingly challenging and dynamic market environment, Samsung is continuing to innovate to stay ahead, looking to smartphones as the core of its strategy. According to industry estimates, global sales of smartphones will double by 2013 and account for one-fourth of all handset sales. With first-time buyers driving half of global sales, it’s clear that the appeal of smartphones is no longer limited to early adopters or even to advanced economies.

JK Shin announced Samsung’s vision “to advance the democratization of the smartphone” and “to make smartphones available for everyone, regardless of cost, need, lifestyle or geographic location.” This strategy points to Samsung’s commitment to deliver devices, applications and services that are relevant for every lifestyle and to empower users around the globe with access to the information and connections that produce valuable user experiences. Mr. Shin also introduced the Smart Life concept and said, “Smart Life is delivering a smartphone experience that is simple, organized and integrated. And Smart Life is flexible and versatile, allowing smartphone users to customize their user experience to fit their own needs.” Based on feedback from U.S. consumers, this philosophy embodies Samsung’s drive to build a new class of smartphones that will maximize user experiences.

The device itself is amazingly thin, and it just feels rugged. It feels, honestly, a lot better than any other Motorola device. Yes, even the DROID. The build quality really is top-notch, with the combination of rubber and chrome. The only thing keeping this thing from the top of our phone lists is the lack of “real” 3G. It’s got a nice screen, but unfortunately it is running Android 1.5 — so, take that for what it’s worth. Check out the video below for the quick specs, and then watch the second video to watch Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs talk about the Motorola i1. Or, he might be talking about something else. Well, either way, we don’t know what we want anymore.

The noise reduction is courtesy of BlueAnt’s Wind Armour Technology, and the company reckon it’ll allow for clear audio in up to 22mph wind.  As for the ruggedness, that’s thanks to removable silicon covers that cushion the casing against knocks and bumps.  The T1 can be paired with two devices simultaneously, thanks to Bluetooth Multipoint, and remains connected even during conversations so you can flip between two active calls on different handsets.

Battery life is rated as up to six hours talktime or up to 120 hours standby, and the headset can store up to 2,000 address book entries.  The BlueAnt T1 will go on sale in May, priced at $79.99.

Press Release:

RUGGED BLUEANT T1 BLUETOOTH HEADSET DELIVERS SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE

Groundbreaking durability and wind noise reduction the result of years of research and development

Las Vegas, NV – 2010 CTIA Wireless – March 22, 2010 – BlueAnt is proud to launch the T1 headset, a durable, reliable Bluetooth device that has been designed to give high quality audio performance in the most challenging conditions.

The T1 is the first BlueAnt headset to feature Wind Armour TechnologyTM. Developed over the course of years of research into wind noise performance, this solution combines patent-pending design features with BlueAnt’s proprietary noise cancellation software to deliver clear audio in wind speeds up to 22 mph—the best wind noise reduction of any Bluetooth headset on the market.

The T1 has also been designed to be highly durable. In addition to the sturdy earpiece, the T1 features removable and interchangeable patent-pending, soft-touch silicon covers that protect and cushion the headset from minor bumps and accidental impact. This headset can also withstand the onslaught of everyday dust and moisture.

The T1 is also the first and only Bluetooth headset to offer caller name announce, so you will always know who is calling because the T1 will read out the name of the incoming caller. Responding to the call is as easy as saying the words “Answer” or “Ignore”, leaving the user hands free to focus on their task at hand. The Text To Speech engine will store up to 2,000 phone book entries per paired device for caller name announce. The T1 also offers A2DP for streaming audio of podcasts and turn-by-turn directions from GPS applications on your mobile phone.

“We realize our customers have busy, active lives and need to connect in all different kinds of environments, be that commuting to work on a busy city street, taking calls on a construction site, or skiing down the back of a mountain. One of the keys to our success is that our devices are designed to naturally integrate into our customers’ lives; with the T1, this now includes active and mobile lifestyles in a variety of environments,” said Taisen Maddern, Executive Chairman of BlueAnt Wireless.

T1 users will also enjoy the Simply Connect experience that BlueAnt pioneered in mobile headsets. BlueAnt’s Simply Connect technology talks the user through setup and pairing, and automatically connects and reconnects the headset with notification. The T1 also offers true multipoint to connect and conduct calls on two mobile phones simultaneously, and is firmware upgradable through BlueAnt’s free updater software. Available in stores in May, the T1 provides 6 hours of talk time and 120 hours of standby time and has an MSRP of $79.99.

More information on the T1 and other hands-free devices from BlueAnt Wireless can be found at
www.blueantwireless.com.

T1 Feature Summary:
 Superior wind noise performance: clear calls in winds up to 22 mph
 Durable exterior and soft touch silicon cover protect the headset from accidental impact, dust and moisture
 Use your voice to make calls with quick access to phone voice dialing
 Answer calls with your voice just by saying “Answer” or “Ignore”
 Stores up to 2,000 phone book entries for each paired device and uses text to speech technology to read out the name of the incoming caller
 Multipoint: connect to two phones at the same time and answer whichever one rings
 True multipoint: both phones remain connected even during a call, so you can switch between multiple simultaneous calls on both phones without disconnecting from the T1
 Simply Connect technology and embedded audio guides talk you through setup and pairing
 A2DP streaming for playback of music, podcasts and turn-by-turn direction information from a phone GPS application
 Free firmware upgrades available online
 Hardware on/off switch

The T1 incorporates the BlueGenieTM Voice Interface software from Sensory, Inc. BlueGenie is a trademark of Sensory, Inc.

That means the AT&T Palm Pre Plus will have WiFi b/g, Bluetooth 2.1 and GPS along with 16GB of storage, while the AT&T Palm Pixi Plus will have half that capacity, with 8GB of storage.  Neither handset has a memory card slot, but both get Palm’s webOS Synergy system; the Pixi Plus will also get a special AT&T blue battery cover.

No specific release dates at present, but AT&T will apparently be showing off the new smartphones at CTIA Wireless 2010 this coming week.  Prices will be following a $100 mail-in rebate and subject to a new, two-year agreement.

Press Release:

Palm webOS Smartphones to be Available for AT&T Customers

Palm to Showcase Pre Plus and Pixi Plus at CTIA Wireless

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Mar 22, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — AT&T’s 80 million customers will soon have a new choice for staying connected in their fast-paced lives — the Palm(R) webOS(TM) platform. Palm, Inc. (NASDAQ:PALM) today announced that the Palm Pre(TM) Plus and Palm Pixi(TM) Plus phones will be available on the nation’s fastest 3G network for $149.99 and $49.99, respectively, with a two-year service agreement and after a $100 mail-in rebate.

“AT&T and Palm have a history of smartphone leadership, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone for us,” said Jon Rubinstein, Palm chairman and chief executive officer. “With Palm webOS phones coming to AT&T, Palm can help most anyone in the United States stay connected so they never miss a thing.”

Pre Plus and Pixi Plus will be featured in Palm’s booth (No. 7053) at CTIA Wireless, which runs March 23-25 in Las Vegas.

With a slider keyboard, a larger touchscreen and a high-performance processor, Pre Plus is Palm’s full-featured Palm webOS phone. It’s designed for people who want an easy-to-use phone with advanced features to help manage the different aspects of their lives, both personal and professional. The keyboard makes for quick and easy typing, while the unique gesture area provides a sleek look and intuitive navigation. Customers also get 16GB(1) of storage (~15GB user available) for applications and media. Pre Plus comes with the Palm Touchstone(TM) Back Cover, so it’s compatible out of the box with the revolutionary inductive Touchstone Charging Dock (sold separately).

As Palm’s thinnest phone to date, Pixi Plus fits easily in your hand or pocket and offers a host of powerful features, including Wi-Fi. It’s great for social communicators and first-time smartphone buyers who want an affordable and customizable phone with a full QWERTY keyboard instantly accessible for messaging and web content. Available in the original black as well as a new blue exclusive to AT&T, Pixi Plus is designed to let you express yourself. With the color Palm Pixi Touchstone Back Covers and the Palm Pixi Artist Series Back Covers (www.palm.com/artistseries), which are compatible with the Touchstone Charging Dock, you can easily switch covers to suit your mood and style (all sold separately at www.palm.com/store).

“We’re offering our customers even greater choice by adding Palm Pre Plus and Palm Pixi Plus to the nation’s best smartphone portfolio,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “Palm webOS plus included access to the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network and the ability to talk and surf the web at the same time is a powerful combination.”

Pre Plus and Pixi Plus showcase the defining features of Palm webOS, including the ability to run multiple applications simultaneously and easily move between them; the power of Palm Synergy(TM), which brings customers’ information from the many places it resides into a single, more comprehensive view; unobtrusive notifications; and universal search.(2) Palm webOS also has a unique model of over-the-air software updates that delivers new features and performance improvements directly to a user’s phone. Past updates have included support for 3D games and video recording allowing webOS customers to use their phones in fun, new ways.

A significant advantage of Palm webOS applications is that they can be integrated into the core webOS functionalities, such as linked contacts, layered calendars, notifications and GPS, providing a rich catalog of innovative and unique offerings for Palm webOS users. The growing Palm App Catalog offers some of the best apps in the market – such as Pandora, Fandango, and rich 3D games like “Need for Speed(TM) Undercover” and “Guitar Hero” – unique in their high integration with the webOS device. Currently there are more than 2,000 applications for download.
Pre Plus and Pixi Plus feature Wi-Fi connectivity, and AT&T customers with these devices will receive AT&T Wi-Fi access at U.S. hotspots included as part of their unlimited data plan. The phones transparently connect to Wi-Fi when in range of an AT&T hotspot, providing customers with fast and seamless access to music, email, video and the web. AT&T has the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network with more than 20,000 U.S. hotspots.

Pre Plus and Pixi Plus also support a variety of AT&T services, including AT&T Navigator for audible turn-by-turn navigation (subscription required), AT&T Address Book to easily synchronize online contacts to your phone, and YPMobile to quickly find local businesses. They also include the following features and specifications. (NOTE: A complete list of features and specifications for each phone is available at www.att.com/WebOS or www.palm.com/PrePlus and www.palm.com/PixiPlus.)

Palm Synergy(TM), a key feature of Palm webOS that brings your information from all the places it resides – including Outlook(3), Google, Facebook, Yahoo! and LinkedIn – into one logical view that links your contacts and calendars, so accessing them is easier than ever

The ability to run multiple applications simultaneously and easily move between them
Unobtrusive notifications
Universal search
Over-the-air software updates delivered directly to a user’s phone
High-quality applications from the Palm App Catalog
High-speed connectivity
Gesture area, which enables simple, intuitive gestures for navigation
Full QWERTY keyboard
High-performance, desktop-class web browser
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
Integrated GPS(4)
Robust messaging support (combining IM, SMS and MMS capabilities)
Multimedia options, including music, photos, video recording and playback, a camera with LED flash and a standard 3.5mm headset jack
Email, including EAS (for access to corporate Microsoft Exchange servers) and personal email support (Google Gmail push, Yahoo!, POP3, IMAP)
Bluetooth(R) 2.1 + EDR with A2DP stereo Bluetooth support
USB mass storage mode
Charger/microUSB connector with USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
Proximity sensor, which automatically disables the touchscreen and turns off the display whenever you put the phone up to your ear
Light sensor, which reduces power usage by dimming the display if the ambient light is dark
Accelerometer, which automatically orients web pages and photos to your perspective
Ringer switch, which easily silences the device with one touch
Removable, rechargeable battery

Band/modes:
UMTS bands/HSDPA 3.6: 850/1900
Quad band GSM/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900
GSM/GPRS/EDGE Class 10

Availability and Pricing

Palm Pre Plus and Palm Pixi Plus will be available in AT&T stores and online at www.wireless.att.com in the coming months for $149.99 and $49.99, respectively, with a two-year service agreement and after a $100 mail-in rebate. More information is available at www.att.com/webOS.