Last month, Verizon unveiled the Samsung Illusion as an option for the money conscious smartphone consumer. This phone may be lacking in specs, but for a $79.99 price tag, Samsung didn’t leave much room for complaining.
One thing I failed to mention in my video review below is how annoyed I was with the placement of the power button. Samsung is known for putting the power button on the side of the phone. While this is a very smart choice for phones that have 4″ displays and above, on the Illusion, it actually made pressing it more annoying than it should. I feel like they’d have been better off putting it on the top of this particular phone.
I will also note that unlike some of the other sites I’ve seen that have reviewed this phone, I did not have any issues with the sound quality. Call me hard of hearing, but the quality was exactly what I’d expect from a $80 phone. Even the speakerphone performed decently. However, if I was in a noisier environment, it might not be loud enough.
All in all, the phone is a solid choice for those who want a simple, no-frills Android phone. I wouldn’t recommend it to power users or enthusiasts, but then again, Verizon and Samsung didn’t have those consumers in mind anyway.
These are the pictures I took during the video review. They were taken indoors, so keep that in mind. Outdoor shots are likely to be much crisper. For a 3 MP camera without a flash, you get decent, quick pics. Just don’t expect to be starting your family photo album with this thing.
Well I’ll be a monkey’s uncle. Verizon has finally given in and announced the release of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus (only hours before launch). I never thought I’d see the day, but here it is and it’s official. Starting tomorrow, anyone with money to spend and a soul to sign away, will be able to purchase the Samsung Galaxy Nexus from Verizon for $299 with a new two-year customer agreement. At this point there really isn’t much we don’t already know about the device so I’ll simply leave you with the full press release below. What a ride, I wonder what’s next?
GALAXY™ NEXUS™ BY SAMSUNG NOW AVAILABLE ON THE VERIZON WIRELESS 4G LTE NETWORK
First Smartphone to Combine Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and the Power of America’s Fastest, Most Reliable 4G Network
BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – Verizon Wireless, Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) and Google™ announced Galaxy™ Nexus™ is available starting today in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at http://www.verizonwireless.com for $299.99 with a new two-year customer agreement.
Customers can browse the Web, stream music and more at blazing speeds using the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network. Galaxy Nexus customers can enjoy access to the 4G LTE network in 190 markets covering over 200 million people across the United States, and fly through the Web with fast download speeds of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps within the 4G LTE Mobile Broadband coverage area.
Galaxy Nexus runs Android™ 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich, which brings an entirely new look and feel to Android. Galaxy Nexus offers customers a redesigned user experience with improved multi-tasking, notifications, Near Field Communications (NFC) sharing with Android Beam™ and a full Web-browsing experience. The lock screen, home screen, phone app and everything in between have been rethought and redesigned to make Android simple, beautiful and useful. Galaxy Nexus also features an ultra-thin 9.47mm design with a 4.65-inch HD Super AMOLED™ Contour Display to watch movies, view pictures and play games that come to life in 720p (1280×720) resolution.
Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) features:
Redesigned user interface – software navigation buttons, a first for Android smartphones, and a dedicated recent apps button to make multi-tasking easy.
Face Unlock – use state-of-the-art facial recognition to unlock Galaxy Nexus.
Android Beam™ – quickly share Web pages, apps, contacts and YouTube™ videos with friends by simply tapping two compatible phones together.
Redesigned Camera – introduces panorama mode, 1080p video capture, zero-shutter lag for instant photo capturing, and effects such as silly faces and background replacement.
People Application – browse friends, family and coworkers, see their photos in high-resolution and check their latest status updates from Google+ and other social networks.
Cloud Services – keep email, contacts, photos, music, browser bookmarks and other data synced to the cloud, available across multiple devices so customers never lose important
data
Google Music – upload up to 20,000 songs to the cloud, discover and buy new music from Android Market™, and stream it instantly on Galaxy Nexus and from the Web for free.
Google+ – Create a Google+ account right from the phone and check status updates, manage circles, quickly share updates and photos, video chat with up to ten friends with Mobile Hangouts, and chat with groups of friends with Google+ Messenger.
Support for Google Mobile™ Services – Gmail™, Google Maps™ with 3D maps and free turn-by-turn navigation, Google Earth™, Movie Studio, YouTube, syncing with Google Calendar™, a redesigned Google+ app and access to more than 300,000 apps, millions of eBooks, thousands of movies to rent, and millions of songs available to download from Android Market.
Additional features:
Dual-core 1.2 GHz application processor and HTML5 Web browser – optimized dual-core processing with Android 4.0 combined with lightning fast 4G LTE connectivity for fast downloading of graphics, applications processing and Web browsing.
Mobile Hotspot capability – share 4G LTE or 3G connection with up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
5-megapixel rear-facing camera with zero-shutter lag for instant photo capturing, autofocus and LED flash with full 1080p recording.
Front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera for video chat.
Textured soft-touch back cover – enhances the ergonomic feel and makes the phone slip-resistant.
Bluetooth® 3.0 technology – support for headset, hands-free, stereo, phonebook access, human interface device (HID) and object push for vCard and vCalendar.
1 GB RAM and 32 GB on-board memory (actual formatted capacity will be less).
Pricing and data packages:
Galaxy Nexus is available now in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at http://www.verizonwireless.com for $299.99 with a new two-year customer agreement.
Customers that purchase a Galaxy Nexus by Samsung will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan beginning at $39.99 monthly access and a smartphone data package starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data.
Looking back over 2011 one might say that T-Mobile had a pretty rough go at things. With the whole buyout deal and the lack of an iPhone 4S hanging over the carrier, some blogs would have you believe that things are pretty dark over in their neck of the woods. We’re here to tell you that Big Magenta don’t need no stinking iPhone to stay relevant and the carrier is going to keep swinging for the fences.
Since the release of the G1 in 2008 T-Mobile has released a string of entry-level and mid-range devices with the occasional high-end smartphone. As we glance back at the last few releases, however, we’re starting to see more of a focus on performance and power. Take for instance the Amaze 4G and Galaxy S II, two solid devices with 4G connectivity and heavy hardware.
4G HSPA+ Handsets are Crazy Fast
Consistently fast 4G speeds from T-Mobile
The Galaxy S II is perhaps our favorite phone from T-Mobile thus far as it features a gorgeous 4.52-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, dual-core 1.5GHz processor, and HSPA+ 42Mbps speeds. Ohhhh that speed is fast, too. We’ve been testing the download speeds in northeastern Ohio over the last few weeks and consistently pull down 18-22Mbps. Compare that to the 10-15Mbps that most people get from their home connection and you can appreciate how quickly we download games or files from Dropbox.
Even upload speeds are crazy fast too, getting upwards of 3Mbps. Don’t think that’s a big deal? Watch how must faster we sync photos to the cloud than you do. YouTube videos? We’re already done. Our next clip is a video of you trying to sync your files from your iPhone 4S. It doesn’t matter which carrier you have for that thing, it ain’t as fast as T-Mobile’s network.
We’ll admit that we got off track a bit, going from specs to network talk a bit prematurely. Apologies, but we forgot to tell you that the Galaxy S II also offers an 8-megapixel camera capable of 1080p HD videos, a front-facing 2-megapixel camera, and 16GB of internal storage. Oh you need more? The microSD card slot allows for another 32GB. How about that iPhone of yours?
So you like choice, do ya?
You ain't getting this stuff with your iPhone 4S.
OK, so maybe you feel like we’re beating the drum a bit too heavily on the Samsung Galaxy S II. That’s where Android and its multiple hardware options and manufacturers come in. See, over on the Android side of things, we appreciate that we have choice.
Like we said at the top, the HTC Amaze 4G is another top-notch device that skews heavily in favor of people who love to take great photos. Features here include software like SmartShot (group photos), SweepShot (panoramic photos), and BurstShot (multiple photos). On the hardware side, the Amaze 4G boasts 1GB RAM, a 4.3-inch qHD display, and an 8-megapixel camera.
If the $229 price point is a little too rich for your blood, consider that T-Mobile still provides fantastic mid-range and entry-level Android devices. There are a number of form factors to choose from from multiple companies including LG, Motorola, HTC, and Samsung.
Competitive Rate Plans
We couldn’t talk about T-Mobile without touching on their rate plans. Currently, users can get two lines with unlimited talk, text, and data at $49.99 per line. Take a peek at the other carriers and you’ll see that, even with promotions, they don’t come add up to the same value.
Whether you’re just starting out with your first smartphone or are a seasoned Android user, T-Mobile’s got you covered with some of the most compelling hardware, competitive pricing and high-speed data that you could ask for.
Verizon today unveiled their next two Android tablets in the 8.2-inch and 10.1-inch DROID XYBOARD. As a rebranded successor to the Motorola XOOM, these tablets come with Android 3.2 Honeycomb, 1.2GHz processors, 1GB RAM, 5-megapixel camera (rear), and 1.3-megapixel camera (front). Although they launch with Honeycomb, Verizon makes it very clear that 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich is coming to both models.
Unfortunately we don’t have an official arrival date for these two tablets with “this month” being as specific it gets. Each model comes in a variety of storage options, 16GB or 32GB and require a two-year service contract at $30/month or higher. If you’re looking to snag a tablet and smartphone at the same time, Verizon will shave off $100 and toss $50 worth of accessories in the bag if you purchase a new Droid RAZR at the same time (limited time only).
DROID XYBOARD 8.2 16GB – $429.99
DROID XYBOARD 8.2 32GB – $529.99
DROID XYBOARD 10.1 16GB – $529.99
DROID XYBOARD 10.1 32GB – $629.99
DROID XYBOARD 10.1 64GB – $729.99
Verizon Wireless and Motorola Mobility Introduce Next-Generation DROID XYBOARD Tablets on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network New Tablets Elevate Customers into an Unprecedented Realm of Communication, Entertainment and Productivity; Verizon Wireless Also Offering New DROID RAZR™ by Motorola in White, Just in Time for the Holidays
BASKING RIDGE, N.J. and LIBERTYVILLE, Ill., Dec. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) and Verizon Wireless today introduced two new additions to the DROID family to deliver new and unparalleled experiences on America’s fastest, most reliable 4G network, the DROID XYBOARD tablets. The two new DROID tablets present new options for consumers looking to stay connected, productive and entertained. Additionally, Verizon Wireless will debut the trendsetting DROID RAZR™ by Motorola in a flashy new white color, a unique gift for the winter holidays. All three products will be upgraded to Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.
The new DROID XYBOARD tablets both boast the blazing speeds of Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network and the power of dual-core 1.2 GHz processors, 1 GB of RAM and MotoCast™ for remote access to non DRM-protected music, pictures, videos and documents stored on work or home computers’ hard drives. Both are equipped with scratch-resistant displays that use Corning® Gorilla® Glass to stay brilliant and a coating of water-repellent nanoparticles makes them resistant to accidental spills and splashes.
Lighter than a paperback book and thinner than an AAA battery, the DROID XYBOARD tablets feature Android™ 3.2 Honeycomb, brilliant high-definition displays with wide viewing angles, magnesium-reinforced bodies with aluminum housing and super portable form-factors. Both tablets offer robust Business Ready features, including enterprise-grade security and apps such as Quickoffice HD® for document editing and creation, Citrix® GoToMeeting™ for productivity and collaboration and Google Talk™ for video conferencing.
The DROID XYBOARD 10.1 is optimized for productivity with stylus support for easy notetaking and markup using a precision tip stylus, included in the box. The XYBOARD 8.2 is perfect for portable entertainment with 2.1 adaptive virtual surround sound and a high-definition display for enjoying Netflix™ movies in up to HD quality, concert-like music and serious gaming. Powered by the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, DROID XYBOARD 10.1 and 8.2 customers can soar through the Web at blazing speeds of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps within 4G LTE Mobile Broadband coverage areas.
Additional features for DROID XYBOARD tablets:
10.1-inch and 8.2-inch high-definition In-Plane Switching (IPS) display for DROID XYBOARD 10.1 and DROID XYBOARD 8.2 respectively
Mobile Hotspot Capability – share 4G LTE connection with up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices
5-megapixel rear-facing HD cameras with digital zoom, autofocus and LED flash, optimized for capturing the moment
1.3-megapixel HD front-facing cameras perfect for video chatting with friends and family
Dijit™ app allows DROID XYBOARD tablets to double as a universal remote control with an electronic programming guide for TVs, Blu-ray Disc™ players, digital video records (DVR), and most other consumer electronics
Support for Google™ Mobile Services including Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Talk, Google Search™, Google Maps™ and access to millions of books from Google Books™
Supports a wide array of separately purchased accessories including an HD station for connecting to speakers and a larger screen, an HD dock to send content via HDMI out to HDTVs and home theater speaker systems and a stylish portfolio with Bluetooth®-enabled keyboard and mouse
Wi-Fi Connectivity (802.11 a/b/g/n)
Pricing:
Both DROID XYBOARD tablets will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online atwww.verizonwireless.com this month.
The DROID XYBOARD 10.1 will be available in three models: 16 GB for $529.99, 32 GB for $629.99 and 64 GB for$729.99 all with a new two-year customer agreement.
The DROID XYBOARD 8.2 will be available in two models: 16 GB for $429.99 and 32 GB for $529.99 both with a new two-year customer agreement.
Customers that purchase a DROID XYBOARD tablet will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband data plan starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data.
DROID RAZR in white will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online atwww.verizonwireless.com this month for $299.99 with a new two-year customer agreement. Customers that purchase a DROID RAZR will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan beginning at $39.99 monthly access and a smartphone data package starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data.
Special promotion:
Customers will receive $100 off a DROID XYBOARD tablet and $50 off select Motorola accessories for a limited time when a customer purchases a DROID RAZR by Motorola with a new two-year customer agreement.
For more information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 107.7 million total wireless connections, including 90.7 million retail customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with nearly 83,000 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.
About Motorola Mobility
Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people’s lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
It’s been about a month since we last saw the A200 passing through Bluetooth SIG, and while at the time much was unknown about Acer’s newest A series tablet, we’ve now received an official announcement from Acer giving us the lowdown. The Acer Iconia A200 tablet is a 10.1″ (not 8.9″ like we speculated) WXGA tablet that will be running Android 3.2 at launch with Ice Cream Sandwich set to land sometime early 2012. Inside, the A200 has a 1GHz Nvidia Tegra 2 processor with 1GB of RAM and will be available in either a 8GB or 16GB version. The A200 also features a 2MP front facing camera, full-size USB port, microSD card slot and Li-Po 3260 mAh battery.
I’m seeing mostly “last year’s” hardware on this thing so I’m guessing this will be a low-cost tablet solution, competing with the likes of the Amazon Kindle Fire. If this thing comes in anywhere above $299 it will just become another DOA tablet lost in the shuffle. Since we haven’t heard anything on price (or when and where it will ship), we’ll just have to hope Acer does the right thing instead of following in the footsteps of so many others who have failed at the pricing game.
There you have it folks, the Acer Iconia A200. Check out the demo video and the full presser below and tell us what you think.
[spoiler show=”Press Release”]Acer Presents the ICONIA TAB A200
The tablet for sharing good times with family at an affordable price
TAIPEI, TAIWAN (December 2, 2011) — Acer Inc. announces the release of the ICONIA TAB A200, the company’s latest tablet. Ideal for sharing good times via gaming, e-books, movies, music, photography, social networking and more, this tablet is an amazing hub of activity for people of all ages, and it comes at a very affordable price. Shipments in select countries include the Android 3.2 OS (code named Honeycomb) beginning in November. Shipments with Android 4.0 (code named Ice Cream Sandwich, or ICS) will start in January 2012 worldwide. A free ICS upgrade to current ICONIA TAB A200 users will also be made available at that time.
Priced right and looking sleek from all angles, the ICONIA TAB A200 stands out in Titanium Gray or Metallic Red. The rear side is soft to the touch and features an eye-catching pattern. Made especially for multimedia enjoyment, this tablet packs hardware and apps for loads of fun. Visuals are fantastic on the generous 10.1″ multitouch screen, and even thrilling games run smoothly thanks to the NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 Dual Core 1 GHz processor and gyrometer.
The ICONIA TAB A200 improves multitasking with the Acer Ring interface for setting easy-access apps from any screen. It also features Screenshot, which quickly captures web images, articles, Google Maps and even smiling faces from video calls. Screenshot can be used in any app on any screen for maximum convenience.
Adapted perfectly for mobility, this tablet has a full-size USB port for hooking up other devices and a MicroSD slot for passing data. A 2 MP web camera enables face-to-face chats for keeping friends and family close at hand wherever you are. Whether on the road or at home, sharing multimedia is easy; you can read an e-book or watch a streaming movie, anytime. For enhanced social networking the ICONIA TAB A200 includes Acer SocialJogger, which consolidates Facebook, Twitter and more.[/spoiler]
AT&T has announced their next Android smartphone today, putting the 4G LTE-ready LG Nitro HD on sale this coming Sunday. Available online and in-store on December 4th, the Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread handset features a 4.5-inch True HD AH-IPS display and a dual-core 1.5 GHz processor. Hardware is top of the line stuff and also includes an 8-megapixel HD camera, 20GB of memory (4GB on-board, 16GB microSD), and Wi-Fi Direct and DLNA connectivity.
LG Nitro HD Delivers First True High-Definition Experience for AT&T Customers
Exclusive to AT&T Customers, Android-Powered LG Nitro HD Provides High-Definition Display, Lightning-Fast Processing Speeds and AT&T 4G LTE Capabilities
Key Facts
LG Nitro™ HD, the first smartphone in the AT&T* portfolio with a true high definition screen becomes the third 4G LTE smartphone for AT&T customers.
Available in AT&T stores and online Dec. 4 for $249.99 with a two-year commitment.
Dual-core 1.5 GHz processor and access to AT&T’s 4G LTE makes Nitro HD the ultimate high-performance super phone.
AT&T 4G LTE recently expanded to 15 markets. AT&T plans to reach 70 million Americans with 4G LTE by year-end 2011.
LG Nitro HD
The LG Nitro™ HD, featuring a 4.5-inch True HD AH-IPS display, will be available exclusively to AT&T customers beginning Dec. 4 in company owned stores and online. Setting a new standard for a mobile device, LG Nitro HD comes equipped with a stunning true high-definition touchscreen display, a dual-core 1.5 GHz processor and access to AT&T’s 4G LTE where available, making it the ultimate high-performance superphone. Not only is LG Nitro HD powerful and incredibly fast, it also features multitasking abilities and offers the latest evolution in mobile device display technology for higher image resolutions and text readability.
Taking advantage of LG’s new proprietary True HD technology, LG Nitro HD’s 4.5-inch AH-IPS (Advanced High-Performance In-Plane Switching) display supports resolutions up to 1280 X 720 pixels and offers unrivaled color accuracy, brightness, battery efficiency and performance. LG Nitro HD’s 500 nit display luminance allows for clear viewing in direct sunlight and RGB stripe pixels deliver incredibly accurate true-to-life color rendering.
LG Nitro HD offers incredibly quick speed, power and efficiency in a slim design (5.27” X 2.67” X 0.41”) making it easy to view, create and share in HD. LG Nitro HD multitasks seamlessly and with AT&T 4G LTE and HSPA+ where available, it easily browses even the most content-heavy websites and runs HD games with ease, including HD gaming from the Gameloft HD game store and Zynga Poker HD.
An 8-megapixel HD camera and 20 GB of total memory (4 GB on-board plus 16 GB via In-box microSD) allows users to capture and view crystal-clear True HD images and video. Wi-Fi Direct™ technology and DLNA® features offer wireless HD content streaming options, making it easier and faster than ever to share HD content with the people and networks that matter the most.
AT&T is the only U.S. carrier providing 4G using both HSPA+ and LTE technologies. HSPA+, when combined with enhanced backhaul, provides customers with compatible devices 4G speeds, meaning customers get a faster and more consistent 4G experience, even when outside of an AT&T 4G LTE area.
Pricing and Availability
Be one of the first to experience the phenomenon of LG Nitro HD on Dec. 4, available exclusively in AT&T company owned stores and online for just $249.99 after a two-year contract.
Quotes
“With the LG Nitro HD as one of our last smartphones to arrive in 2011, we’re closing out the year with a bang,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “We’ve seen others get close to a true HD experience on Android superphones this year, but Nitro HD is the one that does it right.”
“LG continues to push the boundaries of what is possible on mobile devices today,” said Tim O’Brien, vice president of marketing for LG Mobile. “LG Nitro HD will be the first smartphone available for AT&T to feature True HD AH-IPS capabilities, and the advantages of a crystal clear display are immediately evident after seeing the device first hand. In addition to sporting the clearest and crispest display on the market, LG Nitro HD will be one of the fastest and most powerful smartphones available.”
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 93,000 people working in over 120 operations around the world. With 2010 global sales of 55.8 trillion Korean won (USD 48.2 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, mobile devices, air conditioners, washing machines, and refrigerators. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner 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.lg.com.
About LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company
The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visithttp://www.lgmobilephones.com.
Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. 4G speeds delivered by LTE or HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul, where available. Deployment ongoing. Compatible device and data plan required. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Learn more at att.com/network.
Limited-time offer]. LG Nitro HD with new 2-yr wireless agrmt of $39.99 or higher and min $15/mo data plan is $249.99. Wireless Service: Subject to Wireless Customer Agrmt. Coverage and svcs not avail everywhere. Credit approval req’d. Activ. Fee up to $36/line. Geographic, usage, and other terms, conditions and restrictions apply, and may result in svc termination. See store or visit att.com for complete details and coverage maps. Data: Min $15/mo, 200MB, data plan required. If you exceed your initial 200MB allowance, you will automatically be charged an overage of $15 for each additional 200MB provided. All data allowances and overages must be used in the billing period provided or they will be forfeited – details att.com/dataplans. Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge up to $1.25/mo. is chrg’d to help comply with gov’t obligations and chrgs; it is not a tax or gov’t req’d chrg. Early Termination Fee (ETF): After 30 days, ETF up to $325 based on device (details att.com/equipmentETF). Restocking fee up to $35. Taxes and other charges apply.
*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.
Verizon announced their next Android-powered smartphone today, putting the Samsung Illusion on sale beginning tomorrow, November 23rd. Details for the Android 2.3-powered handset include a 1GHz Hummingbird processor, a 3-megapixel camera, and 2GB microSD card.
Available as an online exclusive device until January, the phone will run $79.99 with new two-year service agreements. As part of a promotion, Verizon will be offering the handset for free with qualified two-year service agreements starting on Thursday, Nov. 24 and running through Monday, Nov. 28th.
Equipped with Stylish Form Factor, the Samsung Illusion is Made from Post Consumer Material and Has Attained UL Platinum Rating
BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) today announced the Samsung Illusion™ will be available online atwww.verizonwireless.com beginning Nov. 23 for $79.99 with a new two-year customer agreement. The Illusion will be available for free with a new two-year customer agreement between Thursday, Nov. 24 and Monday, Nov. 28 as a online promotion.
The sophisticated Samsung Illusion smartphone features a sleek form factor and is powered by the nation’s most reliable 3G wireless network. The Illusion boasts a 1GHz Samsung Hummingbird Application Processor, 3.0-megapixel camera, HTML Web browser, music player and integrated contacts, calendar and social networking applications, as well as access to more than 300,000 apps available to download from Android Market.
Key features:
Android 2.3, Gingerbread– support for Google Mobile Services including Gmail, YouTube, Google Talk, Google Search and Google Maps
SWYPE Technology – input text faster and in a more intuitive way with one continuous finger motion across the screen keyboard
Unique curved-glass display
Corporate email support for Microsoft Office Exchange® so customers can synchronize corporate email, contacts and calendars from their office email
Full suite of messaging options, including text, picture and video messaging
6-axis accelerometer with compass
Bluetooth® 3.0 technology – support for headset, hands-free, stereo, phonebook access and object push for vCard and vCalendar
Wi-Fi Connectivity 802.11 a/b/g/n
Mobile Hotspot capability – share 3G connection with up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices
microSD™ card slot with support for up to 32 GB (2 GB pre-installed)
Additional features – Designed with the environment in mind:
UL Platinum Rating (Underwriters Laboratories) – the Samsung Illusion scored 84 out of 119 points to receive the “Platinum” UL rating
Rear casing and battery cover are made from 70 percent post-consumer material and 35 percent of the front casing is post-consumer material
Packaging made from bleach-free paper (post-consumer waste) and printed with vegetable ink
Box material uses 60 percent recycled paper (post-consumer waste)
High-efficiency charger with full-charge alarm
Availability:
The Samsung Illusion will be available online at www.verizonwireless.com on Nov. 23, and will be available in Verizon Communications Stores in January 2012.
Customers that purchase a Samsung Illusion smartphone will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan beginning at $39.99 for monthly access and a smartphone data package starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data.
For more information on the Samsung Illusion or for other Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.
MetroPCS today announced that they will be offering their first HTC handset later this week in the form of the Wildfire S. Expected online and at Metro PCS locations around the country, the smartphone will run $179 and work with the carrier’s $50 and $60 monthly rate plans. Specifications for the HTC Wildfire S include Android 2.3 with Sense UI, a 3.2-inch HVGA display, 600MHz processor, and a 5-megapixel camera. Not high end stuff but we suspect Metro PCS customers don’t expect all that much anyways.
MetroPCS Says Hello to HTC Adding the Wildfire S to its Android Smartphone Line-up
DALLAS – (November 21, 2011) – MetroPCS Communications, Inc. (NYSE: PCS), and HTC Corporation (HTC) today introduced the HTC Wildfire STM, MetroPCS’ first Android smartphone provided by HTC. Available in MetroPCS stores and online this week, the stylish Android smartphone comes with HTC’s user-friendly HTC Sense, which makes it easy to personalize and navigate the device, along with quick access to the latest multimedia content.
With Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), the HTC Wildfire S packs a powerful smartphone experience, but with an affordable, compact and playful device with the unmatched value of no-annual contract service plans. Coming in a stylish white design, the HTC Wildfire S is created for social consumers, allowing them to easily stay connected with friends and family.
“As we continue to deliver Android for All to our customers, our partnership with HTC is yet another way we’re delivering today’s most advanced smartphones with the affordability and flexibility of our no-annual contract services,” said Tom Keys, president and chief operating officer of MetroPCS. “The HTC brand continues to increase in popularity given its high-quality, cutting-edge smartphones that allow consumers to do more while on the go. The HTC Wildfire S is a perfect example – a powerful, yet chic device that delivers the most of Android, while making it easier to enjoy the multimedia and entertainment consumers love.”
MetroPCS offers unmatched value with its $50 and $60 smartphone plans, which include all applicable taxes and regulatory fees. For just $60, consumers can choose between Rhapsody’s Unlimited Music or video entertainment with MetroSTUDIOTM – on top of unlimited Internet access, voice and texting services. With the vast music library provided by the new Rhapsody Unlimited Music service, music lovers can play, download or stream as many songs as they want, free from the per-track charges that come with most other music download services.
“Through our partnership with MetroPCS, we hope to continue providing our consumers with the affordable, yet advanced, smartphones and multimedia content they demand, all with the flexibility of a pay-in-advance service,.” said Martin Fichter, vice president, product management, HTC Americas.
HTC Sense is designed to enable the user to easily maneuver through the phone simply and naturally, in a way that’s intuitive and just makes sense. On the HTC Wildfire S, social networking is integrated into your contacts, so you can easily tag your friends in photos before posting them to Facebook or share your favorite apps at the touch of a button. And with its rear 5 megapixels color camera with flash and autofocus, capturing great images and video of friends and family has never been easier, allowing users to watch and view videos directly on the device’s 3.2” HVGA screen. In addition, the HTC Wildfire S is equipped with a 600 MHz processor and comes with fully customizable home screens, so you can add your favorite applications and widgets for even quicker social media access.
The HTC Wildfire S will be available for $179 plus tax. Consumers interested in purchasing the HTC Wildfire S can visit their local MetroPCS store or go online to purchase the phone and sign up for service.
The Motorola Admiral was announced late October as the first Android-powered smartphone with Sprint Direct Connect. I had the opportunity to get some hands-on time with the device and want to share with you guys my opinions on this “business ready,” “military grade,” piece of hardware. We’ll take a look at the hardware, software, and every other “ware” you can think of to help you decide whether or not this Admiral is fit to run your fleet.
Outer Shell
The Motorola Admiral was built to be “business ready” and shares a common business design most resembling its cousin the Motorola DROID Pro or a Blackberry Torch 9810 that doesn’t close. It has a very sleek QWERTY bar form factor with more curve than bar, giving it a classy look. It’s compact and lightweight but built to be tough. The Motorola ADMIRAL is designed to meet Military Standard 810G for dust, shock, vibration, solar radiation, low pressure and high and low temperatures, but believe me, you won’t be able to tell by holding the device, as it feels extremely petite and fragile.
I found the sides to be very smooth which made the device feel very slippery in my hands. On the left you have a volume rocker, Sprint Direct Connect button and micro USB port. The right side is pretty much clear with only a single camera button — which happens to be quite small in my opinion, especially considering it’s the only button located on the right side.
On the top of the device you will find a speaker phone button, a 3.5mm headset jack and a power/lock button. A microphone is located at the bottom of the device.
The front of the device features a 3.1″ scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass display, with an ear piece and notification light at the top and four capacitive buttons at the bottom. Below the display is a 4-row physical QWERTY keyboard, a speaker, and a second mic. The back of the phone features a cover which feels like cheap plastic and had me worried every time I took it off to get at the battery. I felt like it was going to snap which doesn’t really fit my definition of “tough.” Also on the back, you’ll find the 5MP camera with flash along with the familiar Motorola and Sprint logos.
Under the Hood
Under the hood you’ll find more than enough power to keep business moving. The Admiral comes equipped with a single core 1.2GHz Qualcomm MSM8655 processor, 512 MB RAM, a 1860 mAh Lithium-ion battery (which takes a while to charge) and 4GB of onboard storage, although I believe only 1.4GB is actually available to the user. The Admiral does have a microSD card slot for up to 32GB of expandable storage and you’re definitely going to want to pick a microSD card up since it doesn’t come with one.
The Display
The Motorola Admiral features a 3.1″ VGA (640×480) tough Gorilla Glass touchscreen display. The display is quite small compared to the behemoths we’re used to seeing nowadays, but given that the Admiral is marketed as more of a business device, and features a QWERTY keyboard, the small screen size fits well. Viewing most everyday tasks such as phone calls, emails, etc. are fine on the small screen, but you’ll definitely miss those extra inches once you get into web browsing, videos and games. I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting much out of this little VGA display but was pleasantly surprised at just how crisp and vivid it actually was.
The Keyboard
I found the Admiral’s QWERTY keyboard to be a little too compact for my liking. It’s a definite tough match for overweight opposable thumbs and makes for quite a few errors. Typing at a moderate speed was fine, but if you attempt a teenage speed text, your message will most likely resemble Klingon. Man hands beware.
The Camera
The Motorola Admiral has a 5-megapixel camera with 720p HD video capture, LED flash and 4x zoom, but like most Motorola cameras I’ve used, I was not impressed. Quality was okay when taking pictures outside, but inside or under low light, photo quality was disappointing. Shutter speed is also painful, and there’s nothing I dislike more than having to wait 4-5 seconds after I hit the camera button for my picture to be captured.
Direct Connect
Sprint Direct Connect is Sprint’s new push-to-talk network which uses CDMA EVDO Rev. A and allows simultaneous PTT and data. This is going to be the future of PTT on Sprint as they slowly phase out support for iDEN technology. Many changes have gone into this new system and it includes several great features such as the ability to DC up to 200 handsets in a TeamDC call, as well as availability notification. Direct Connect is probably the single most reason you’ll be purchasing the Motorola Admiral and was unfortunately the only feature I was unable to test — due to not having a single contact with a DC number. I apologize, but you’re just going to have to watch the video provided by Motorola to see how DC works on the Admiral.
Software
You’ll find the Admiral running Android 2.3.5 with Motorola’s most recent “it’s not Motoblur” UI. While I personally prefer a vanilla Android experience, I will say that the Motorola UI reacts fast and is very responsive, in part, due to the device’s 1.2GHz processor, so no worries about performance.
The Admiral comes preloaded with a few Sprint specific “bloatware” apps which for the most part can be uninstalled, but after that — it’s all business:
Quick Office app – Create and edit documents in Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as Adobe PDF documents anywhere, anytime.
Support and easy push for Microsoft Exchange and other email systems.
Full suite of Google applications and services, including Google Maps, Google Talk, Gmail, Calender, etc.
3G Mobile Hotspot capability supporting up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously.
Enhanced on-device security features that can be managed via the existing Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync Server, including password support, remote wipe and data encryption, as well as more than 30 other security policies.
You’ll also find the use of “Profiles” to be helpful in maintaining mobile separation of work life and personal life. Switching between profiles is as easy as 1-2-3.
Final Thoughts
You’re most likely going to be buying the Motorola Admiral for work purposes so I’ll focus on that. The claim is that the Admiral is tough, and while I can’t vouch for its toughness (since returning review units in pieces is frowned upon), I will say that I’d feel uncomfortable using this device in a field such as construction. It just doesn’t “feel” durable enough and does not have enough of a grip to it. If you’re in a field where your mobile device really takes a beating, you might want to consider purchasing a rugged case to add protection and grip. Anyone in the business sector will love how sleek this phone looks and feels, but no matter what field you work in, one thing is for sure — the Admiral is ready to work.
It’s fast, reliable, features a responsive touchscreen keyboard as well as a full physical QWERTY, has Direct Connect and a battery large enough to last. Did I mention that the Motorola Admiral is only $99 on a 2-year contract? Not a bad price at all. As always, I recommend doing your own hands-on before making any decisions, but I’ll say this, I’d take the Admiral over a Blackberry any day. And for those that need Push-to-Talk, why not have it along with the worlds leading mobile phone OS!
To purchase the Motorola Admiral, or for more information, visit Sprint.com
AT&T has announced its second 4G LTE-ready Android tablet today, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9. Due on November 20th for $479.99 with a two-year commitment, the ultra-thin tablet joins the HTC Jetstream as the only other tablet on the network able to support the faster 4G connectivity. Speaking of which, AT&T is set to expand its 4G LTE footprint by another 6 markets on the 20th, hitting the goal of 15 total. Look for Charlotte, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, and San Juan, Puerto Rico to go early next week!
If you think you need a little bit of extra persuasion to purchase the Samsung tablet, consider that for a limited time, customers who select a Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 will receive a Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket or Samsung Galaxy S II smartphone at no cost. Of course, you’ll still need to sign the appropriate two-year agreements for both units however that’s quite a deal!
NEW 4G LTE TABLET AVAILABLE FOR AT&T CUSTOMERS
Ultra-Thin and Lightweight Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 Available Nov. 20 in AT&T Stores and Online
AT&T 4G LTE Expanding to Six New Markets, Total of 15 Nationwide
DALLAS, Nov. 14, 2011—
Key Facts
AT&T* introduced its second 4G LTE-enabled tablet for customers, the Samsung Galaxy™ Tab 8.9, an ultra-thin tablet perfect for Android fans who want an optimized Honeycomb experience in a best-in-class form factor.
Customers can purchase from AT&T stores and online beginning Nov. 20.
For a limited time, customers who select a Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 will receive a Samsung Galaxy S™ II Skyrocket or Samsung Galaxy S™ II smartphone at no cost. A two year agreement is required on the smartphone.
Additionally, AT&T will launch 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) in six new markets on Nov. 20: Charlotte, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Nov. 20 launches will expand AT&T 4G LTE to 15 markets total, meeting its 2011 market commitment. AT&T plans to reach 70 million Americans by year-end 2011.
AT&T offers the only devices capable of 4G speeds utilizing both 4G LTE and HSPA+, for a consistently fast connection in and out of 4G LTE areas.
AT&T topped its goal to offer 20 4G devices this year. The addition of the new 4G LTE devices brings the 4G device total to 24.
Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 8.9
Exclusive to AT&T customers, the 4G LTE Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 8.9 is a slim, lightweight tablet, running Android™ 3.2 and packed with optimized services from Google, AT&T and Samsung. The new tablet features a vivid 8.9-inch 1280×800 pixel high-resolution screen, powerful processor 1.5 GHz dual-core processor for fast multi-tasking, and tabbed browsing with support for HTML 5 and Adobe® Flash® Player.
4G LTE backed by 4G HSPA+
Android 3.2 (Honeycomb)
15.9 ounces light, 8.6mm thin
Brilliant 8.9” HD widescreen
3.2 megapixel rear facing camera with LED flash, 2 megapixel front facing camera
Tabbed browsing, Adobe Flash and HTML support
Snapdragon 1.5 GHz dual core processor
16 GB internal memory and expandable up to 32 GB via accessory option
1 GB RAM
TouchWiz® UX
Dimensions: 230.9 x 157.8 x 8.6 mm
Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 8.9 will arrive in AT&T company-owned retail stores and online Nov. 20 for $479.99 with a two-year commitment. For a limited time, customers who select a Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 will receive a Samsung Galaxy S™ II Skyrocket or Samsung Galaxy S™ II smartphone at no cost. A two year agreement is required on the smartphone. Learn more atwww.att.com/tablets.
AT&T 4G LTE Data Plans
AT&T tablet customers can choose a $35, 3 GB monthly data plan option with a two-year contract, and customers who do not choose a long-term commitment may still select one of two existing monthly billing options for tablets:
Postpaid: $14.99 for 250 MB or $25 for 2 GB. Customers on the 2 GB plan who exceed their monthly data plan will be charged $10 per 1 GB of overage. Charges will appear on customers’ monthly wireless statements offering the simplicity of a single bill.
Prepaid: $14.99 for 250 MB or $25 for 2 GB. Customers on the 2 GB plan who exceed their monthly data plan may choose to purchase an additional 2 GB for $25. Charges will appear on customers’ credit card statements.
AT&T 4G LTE smartphone customers can choose from tiered data plans starting as low as $15 per month. Existing smartphone customers do not have to make changes to their data plan. All plans include access to AT&T’s national Wi-Fi network of more than 29,000 hotspots.
DataPlus provides 200 megabytes (MB) of data for just $15 per month. An additional 200 MB of data usage is $15.
DataPro provides 2 gigabytes (GB) of data for $25 per month. An additional 1 GB of data is $10. Customers who want to use their device as a mobile hotspot can sign up for DataPro 4GB for $45 a month, which lets you tether or share your data connection across multiple devices.
AT&T 4G LTE Footprint
With the Nov. 20 launches, AT&T 4G LTE will be available in 15 markets: Athens, Ga., Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, San Antonio, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.
AT&T is the only U.S. carrier providing 4G using both HSPA+ and LTE technologies. HSPA+, when combined with enhanced backhaul, provides customers with compatible devices 4G speeds, meaning customers get a faster and more consistent 4G experience, even when outside of an AT&T 4G LTE area. Customers of other carriers that have transitioned to 4G LTE without further speed upgrades to their existing networks are likely to see a jarring drop-off in speeds when they move out of LTE coverage.
Quotes
“The arrival of the Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 8.9 adds to our outstanding Android lineup and our growing portfolio of premier 4G LTE devices,” said David Christopher, chief marketing officer, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “We’re constantly adding new 4G LTE coverage and only AT&T offers 4G LTE plus 4G speeds through our HSPA+ network.”
