Sprint MM-A940 multimedia phone by Samsung announced

By Brad Newnham

Sprint and Samsung have announced the Sprint Power Vision Multimedia Phone MM-A940 by Samsung.

The MM-A940 by Samsung is compatible with the Sprint Power Vision network Sprint's EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized) wireless high-speed multimedia network. The new services supported by the MM-A940 include the newly announced Sprint Music Store(SM), which allows users to immediately buy and download complete songs directly to their phone; 30 channels of live and on demand video and audio from Sprint TV and On Demand, a personalized resource guide to news, traffic, weather, sports and entertainment. The MM-A940 by Samsung is also the first two-megapixel, 2.0 optical zoom camera phone with a rotating screen introduced to the U.S. by Sprint. The phone is available now nationwide at Sprint Stores and online (www.sprint.com) for $399.99 or $249.99 after rebate.

"The MM-A940 by Samsung heralds the consumer trend of convergence between wireless handsets and the functionality of many household consumer electronic devices," said Oliver Valente, senior vice president product development, Sprint Nextel. "Sprint's delivery of superior multimedia and imaging handsets capable of delivering high-speed data from our Power Vision network reinforces our position as the leading provider of wireless data services such as live television and digital music downloads. This device gives customers access to a multimedia revolution with the ability to instantly purchase their favorite song and experience world events as they happen with live TV."

Palm European Engineering Centre opens in Dublin

By Sara Griffin

Palm looks to accelerate delivery of next-generation smartphones by opening their European Engineering Centre in Dublin.

Ed Colligan, president and chief executive officer of Palm, Inc., and Micheal Martin TD, Ireland's minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, today announced that Palm, a leader in mobile computing and a leading provider of smartphones, has opened a Research and Development Centre at Swords, Co. Dublin, with the support of IDA Ireland (Industrial Development Agency). The centre will develop custom software applications for Palm Treo smartphones for the mobile operators in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region.

Minister Martin, speaking at the official opening of the new centre, welcomed the investment. "The impact of attracting an R&D investment to Ireland from a company such as Palm, a high-profile brand leader with a reputation for innovation in wireless and communications, underlines this country's ability to successfully attract high-end R&D projects," he said. "Palm represents an important addition to the emerging wireless sector in this country, a key target area for IDA Ireland. It also is an ideal fit with IDA's strategy of adding higher-value knowledge-intensive activities and strategic mandates to existing operations here."

Content Beamer Local for BlackBerry available for download

By Brad Newnham

Bluetooth capable BlackBerry handhelds from Research In Motion can now download Content Beamer Local bluetooth print solution for their device.

The ThinPrint Content Beamer Local for BlackBerry Solution lets BlackBerry Users Print Email Texts, Calendar Entries, Tasks, and Memos via Bluetooth.

Content Beamer Local for BlackBerry from the mobile printing experts at ThinPrint can be downloaded at www.content-beamer.com/local. With the solution from the BlackBerry Alliance Partner, Bluetooth capable BlackBerry handhelds can print email texts, calendar entries, contact data, tasks, and memos via Bluetooth. When downloaded, the command for Bluetooth printing is automatically integrated directly into the BlackBerry menu. Content Beamer Local for BlackBerry has a one-time cost of 29 euros including tax. The version provided for download includes a free trial period.

"Content Beamer Local for BlackBerry is the world's first Bluetooth print solution for the individual BlackBerry user," states Carsten Mickeleit, ThinPrint Managing Director. "The product is therefore an ideal extension of our server solution, Content Beamer for BlackBerry, which is geared toward enterprise customers and also enables Bluetooth printout of attachments in original format as well as addressing network printers."

Nokia 1255 and Nokia 2355 CDMA handsets introduced

By Dave Lampert

Nokia has introduced the Nokia 1255 and Nokia 2355 CDMA handsets. These two CDMA handsets are designed for new growth markets.

Both the classically styled monoblock Nokia 1255 phone and the expressively designed fold-style Nokia 2355 phone boast strong feature sets not usually found at their entry-level price point. Both the Nokia 1255 and Nokia 2355 phones are expected to be available during the 1st quarter of 2006.

"Nokia has built a strong relationship with CDMA operators in new growth markets around the world, and we are pleased to be adding two more handsets to our lineup that will meet the unique needs of their customer bases," said Timo Ihamuotila, senior vice president of Nokia's CDMA business unit. "Even while meeting the value needs of consumers in these new growth markets, the Nokia 2355 and Nokia 1255 phones still deliver a wide range of features designed to enhance the mobile experience."

Nokia 1255 phone: A classic value The value-priced Nokia 1255 phone packs an extra-large feature set into an extra-small package. The 80-gram phone offers productivity tools such as a two-way handsfree speakerphone, voice recorder and a calendar with an alarm clock. Other fun features include two built-in games, 20 ringtones and a selection of user-selectable screen savers. In recognition of the need to stay in touch while minimizing downtime, the Nokia 1225 phone delivers up to four hours of talk time and up to 10 days of standby time. A partial list of additional features includes:

250 contact phonebook

Text messaging

Stopwatch and countdown timer

Internal vibrating alert

Easy-to-use Nokia user interface

Nokia 2355 phone: Low cost, high impact
Following the Nokia tradition of delivering high-impact products to all market segments, the new Nokia 2355 phone delivers an ultra-compact, color screen 78-gram fold-style phone to the entry-level market. The 128 x 128 pixel 65K color screen, built-in FM radio and integrated flashlight allow the Nokia 2355 phone to deliver a unique set of features to owners, while the ability to download BREW 1.2 or Java MIDP 1.0 content, such as ringtones, games and screensavers, offers value-added services that meet the needs of both consumers and operators. Other selected features of the Nokia 2355 phone include:

Text and multimedia messaging

Integrated speakerphone

WAP 2.0 compliant browser

16-chord polyphonic ringtones

Calendar with alarm clock

Palm TX Handheld showcased at T+L2

By Sara Griffin

The new Palm TX handheld from Palm is being showcased at T+L2 (Technology, Leadership & Learning) Wednesday through Friday at the Colorado Convention Center.

Sponsored by the National School Boards Association, the annual T+L2 conference is expected to draw thousands of school and district administrators, school board members, curriculum directors and teachers. See the Palm TX at Palm's booth, No. 847.

The Palm TX handheld is for educators and students on the go who want affordable Wi-Fi(1) to access the information that matters to them. Aggressively priced at $299 (estimated U.S. street price), the Palm TX handheld features integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth(R) wireless technologies that give administrators, teachers and students the access they need to the web, email, school networks and connection to other compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as phones, PCs and printers.(1) It also features a large, high-resolution 320x480 color screen and all the power needed to efficiently access and manage information conveniently when away from the desktop.

With the versatility of two integrated wireless technologies -- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth -- educators and students can enjoy the convenience of information access within Wi-Fi service areas, on campus or watching the football game; or by using their compatible Bluetooth-enabled cell phone with data service to connect to the Internet.(1) Users can do all of the following:

Check campus email as well as personal accounts(1);

Download, read and edit a Word or Excel report on the fly;

Send a photo wirelessly;

Synchronize email on the device with desktop email;

Synchronize Outlook contacts, calendar, tasks and memos; and

Work with Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync(R), using VersaMail(R) software, to synchronize email and calendar.(2)

(1) An Internet service provider account, email account and subscription may be required for Internet and email access. These services may need to be purchased separately and additional charges may apply. Email account not included. Wireless access via Bluetooth requires compatible GSM mobile phone with Bluetooth wireless technology, data service from a mobile service provider and ISP, sold separately.

(2) Requires Exchange Server 2003 and access enabled by IT administrator.

Eric Johnson, general manager of education for Palm, calls the Palm TX, "the wireless device educators have been waiting for. No other handheld on the market today has the same capabilities at the same affordable price."

Motorola V262 hits shelves at MetroPCS locations

By John Saria

The Motorola V262 are now available MetroPCS locations nationwide. The V262 is the first Motorola product available to MetroPCS customers, delivering an affordable and reliable feature set.

Leveraging MetroPCS' @metro service, consumers using the Motorola V262 will enjoy a host of multimedia applications, including the ability to search a library of new and vintage games, browse for wallpaper and download* ringtones that range from top ten hits, television themes, hip-hop tunes and more.

"As a growing service provider, we are happy to work with an industry leader like Motorola and offer our customers the latest in high-quality handsets," said Roger Linquist, president and CEO for MetroPCS. "Satisfying our customers' mobile connectivity needs for both business and pleasure, we look forward to seeing the model V262 fly off store shelves."

SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Mobile Recon available to Verizon Wireless Get It Now customers

By John Saria

JAMDAT Mobile has announced that its SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Mobile Recon game is now available to Verizon Wireless Get It Now customers.

SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Mobile Recon is a real-time strategy game full of team-based action and cinematic gameplay. The game allows Verizon Wireless customers with select Get It Now-enabled phones to command a two-man Navy SEAL recon team by assigning orders, shooting, sniping and blasting their way through eight intense missions. Players fight enemies with multiple assault rifles, C4 explosives and knives as they make their way through moving vehicles and power lines, machine gun turrets, flying birds, swaying trees and explosives. SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Mobile Recon allows mobile thrill seekers the ability to relive the SOCOM experience, anytime, anywhere.

"SOCOM's fan base of loyal players will be excited to see their favorite game now available in the wireless arena," said Mitch Lasky, Chairman and CEO of JAMDAT Mobile Inc. "By bringing this very popular title to Verizon Wireless' Get It Now customers, we will be able to reach a tremendous group of both wireless gamers and SOCOM fans."

Next-generation 'Internet 4G' wireless service launched by T-Mobile

By Jessica Kinsey

T-Mobile has launched the next-generation wireless commercial services of "Internet 4G" powered by TD-CDMA from IPWireless. This new service will allow subscribers to access the Internet, watch streaming video, download music, and transfer large files at broadband speeds.

iPowered by UMTS TD-CDMA technology from IPWireless, T-Mobile's Internet 4G service is fast enough to allow subscribers to replace their fixed line services, but is also mobile, allowing them to enjoy rich multimedia experiences wherever they are in the service area.

During the launch events for the new service over the coming week, T-Mobile will show the capabilities of Internet 4G to highlight the enhanced wireless experience that customers will enjoy. Video of the country's top- rated television show will be streamed smoothly for a broadcast-like viewing experience. Music will be downloaded from T-Music, T-Mobile's online music service. Enterprise collaboration tools that allow coworkers to hold videoconferences, share presentations, and hold online whiteboard sessions wherever they are will be demonstrated. T-Mobile will also demonstrate the "speed and latency difference" of Internet 4G over other wireless networks for web browsing, email, and online gaming.

"Internet 4G gives our subscribers full connectivity to work and play on the go, and provides a connection that's fast enough to replace the home fixed connection," said Roland Mahler, managing director, T-Mobile CZ. "With Internet 4G, we are confident that T-Mobile will strengthen its position as the No. 1 communications provider in the Czech Republic."

RAZR V3x, E770v and E1070 3G handsets introduced by Motorola

By Dave Lampert

Motorola has unveiled the RAZR V3x, the E770v and the E1070its next generation of 3G/UMTS mobile handsets. These phones are launching first with operators in Europe and Asia. RAZR V3x pictured right.

The introduction of the RAZR V3x unites the power of 3G/UMTS technology with the world acclaimed RAZR clamshell design. The ultra-slim RAZR V3x is available in three colors: liquorice black exclusively through 3, ash silver exclusively through Vodafone, and cosmic blue available through other wireless operators.

In addition, Motorola announced the compact E1070 clamshell with the very latest multimedia capabilities and as the small yet powerful E770v candy bar, which is available exclusively at Vodafone.

"The E1070 and the E770v enrich the Motorola UMTS line-up with more 'must have' designs and 'must do' experiences," said Ron Garriques, president of Motorola Mobile Devices. "We're thrilled to be working with the world's leading UMTS operators to deliver the promise and power of 3G to everyone. And we're especially excited to deliver the RAZR V3x, which puts the 'wickedly cool' in UMTS."

OSDL gains PalmSource as a new member

By John Saria

PalmSource has announced the they have joined the The Open Source Development Labs (OSDL or the Labs) as a founding member of the Labs' new Mobile Linux Initiative.

PalmSource is the provider of Palm OS(R), a leading operating system powering next generation phones and mobile devices.

PalmSource announced last year that it would build its new applications framework on and port its Palm OS platform to run on Linux. As a member of OSDL and an MLI participant, PalmSource will work with other Lab members and the development community to advance the use of Linux in mobile devices. The MLI will focus industry and open source developer resources on Linux-based operating system technical challenges, foster development of applications for Linux-based mobile devices, deliver requirements definition documents and use cases, and host complementary open source projects that support the initiative.

"PalmSource believes that Linux has the potential to become a leading operating system for mobile devices, and we are committed to accelerating that process," said Michael Kelley, senior vice president of engineering for PalmSource. "By joining OSDL, and being a part of the Mobile Linux Initiative, we can work closely with Linux industry pioneers to contribute to the on-going development and adoption of mobile Linux."