Sprint Unveils Windows Mobile 5 Phone
Sprint on Friday announced the availability of the Sprint PCS Vision Smart Device, which it calls the first PDA/phone combination in the US to feature Windows Mobile 5.0. Made by UTStarcom, the CDMA device will allow users to take advantage of Sprint's next generation EV-DO high-speed network.
The PPC-6700 will also include WiFi capability, Bluetooth, a full QWERTY keyboard, and 1.3-megapixel camera with the capability for recording video. The device bundles Microsoft Office Suite for Windows Mobile, as well as ActiveSync and support for over-the-air synchronization with an Exchange 2003 server.
Inside the unit is a 416MHz Intel PXA270 processor. An SD card slot will give the user the option of adding more memory above what is built in. Some users will be disappointed that the device only gets 3.7 hours of battery life, although Sprint did not specify whether that number is talk time or total usage.
"We believe the PPC-6700 really is the next-generation mobile device," said Philip Christopher, president of UT Starcom Personal Communications. "When paired with Sprint's advanced wireless service, [the device is] designed to enable professionals to virtually carry office capabilities in their pocket."
Third party applications included with the device are Action Info and AudibleListener. Users will also receive a 30-day trial to Action Info, which carries content from FOX Sports, AP News, AP Stocks, Restaurant Row, and Zap 2 it Movies among other providers.
A special promotion is available to Sprint customers who sign up for an Audible subscription, where they can receive up to $100 cash back.
The PPC-6700 is slated to be available online and in stores later this year at a retail price of $629.99 USD before any discounts and promotions. The product page on the Sprint Web site, however, lists the device at $479.99 USD with a two-year contract.