We also know that 3M is still planning on launching the device later this year, but it is unclear whether or not this device would be available as a stand-alone product or whether it will be integrated in Samsung devices. Although, given the interest in applying this technology to cellphones, integration into Samsung products seems likely. [Twin Cities via About Projectors]

• Both can do full high-def shooting—Casio at 1080i but Samsung beats it, with 1080p
• The Samsung can do slow-mo at 300 frames per second (presumably in standard def, but maybe in HD; Casio can do 300fps, 600fps and 1200fps
• Both can take still pictures while shooting video—very helpful indeed
• Although the Samsung is positioned as a camcorder and the Casio is called a camera, they both have 6-megapixel CMOS sensors

Given the CES announcement and the Korea launch, we can only assume that the HMX20 will be one of the items in Samsung's summer line show lineup. That's good news for everybody—except maybe Casio. [Samsung Press Release via PC World]

Glyde™
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
FEATURES
• Touch Screen
• Full QWERTY Keyboard
• Full HTML Browser
• V CAST Music and Video*
• Bluetooth® Wireless Technology**
- headset (mono and stereo),
handsfree, serial port, dial-up
networking, object push (vCard only),
basic imaging, basic print and phone
book access.
- A2DP/AVRCP
- AVDTP/AVCTP
• 2.0 Megapixel Digital Camera
- Flash, up to 9 Step Digital Zoom,
and Auto Focus
• Camcorder
- MMS Length (30-second clips)
- Normal Length (10-minute clips)
• 72-Note Polyphonic Ringtones
• T9™ Text Input for Easy Text Entry
• Bilingual User Interface (English &
Spanish)
• Personal Organizer: Calculator,
Calendar, Alarm Clock, World Clock,
Stop Watch and Notepad
• Directional Microphone
• Get It Now® Enabled (BREW 3.1.4)*
• Standalone Mode (Airplane Mode)
• Dialing Fonts
• Dual NAM
• Voice Memo
• Advanced Speech Recognition
including Text-to-Speech for Digit Dial
Readout and SMS Readout
• Downloadable Content (Ringers, Wallpapers, Games & Business Applications)
• VZ Navigator® LBS / E911 Enabled*
• Messaging Services - text messaging (SMS), enhanced messaging (EMS), multimedia messaging (MMS), Mobile
Email, Mobile IM
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
• CDMA 1x 800/1900mHz Digital Only EVDO
• Dimensions: 4.09" x 1.97" x .7" (standard battery)
• Weight: 4.13 ounces (standard battery)
• Display: 240 x 440 Pixel, 262K TFT Color
• Standard Battery: 3.7 Volt Lithium Ion, 1000 mAh
• Extended Battery: 3.7 Volt Lithium Ion,1300 mAh
• Usage Time: Up to 210 mins (3.5 hrs) (standard battery); Up to 270 mins (4.5 hrs) (extended battery)
• Standby Time: Up to 250 hrs (standard battery); Up to 325 hrs (extended battery)
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M4
MEMORY
• Internal Phone Book
- Up to 500 entries with multiple contacts
- Can store one picture with each entry
- One-, Two- and Three-Touch dialing
• Last 90 Incoming, Outgoing and
Missed Call Logs
• microSD™ Memory Card Slot
(Up to 8 GB)
CALL MANAGEMENT
AND SERVICES
• Picture Caller ID*
• Voice Mail*
• Caller ID*
• Call Forwarding*
• Call Waiting*
• Three-Way Calling*
ACCESSORIES
• Standard Battery
• Extended Battery
• Vehicle Power Charger
• Battery Travel Charger
• Travel Adapter
• Data Cable
• Universal Carry Case and Holster
• 2.5 mm 4pole mic/Stereo earbuds
• Bluetooth® Mono Headset
• Stereo Bluetooth® Headset
• Bluetooth® Stereo Speakers
STANDARD PACKAGE
CONTENTS
• Handset
• Standard Lithium Ion Battery
• User Manual
• Quick Reference Guide
• Quick Start Guide
• USB Cable & CD
• Travel Charger

The Price: $199 w/ 2-year contract.

The Verdict: Underneath the shiny mobile TV veneer with its crystal clear, mondo-size-for-a-candybar screen, it's actually a fairly basic phone. (Which wouldn't be a problem, except for the price—you're essentially paying for the privilege of watching mobile TV.) The UI is better than average (other than the generous slathering of orange), but you'll get nothing truly deep here. It has the same gimpy built-in email client as LG's Vu (no Gmail or custom IMAP or POP support) but the non-QWERTY keyboard means you wouldn't be doing any heavy lifting anyway. Also the browser's not very robust—expected for this kind of phone, but at the same time, I feel like the phone's slick aesthetics promised me more (a la N95).

Let's talk about what this phone is supposed to do well, though: Mobile TV. It does succeed there. The screen is pretty exceptional, if a bit smaller than what I'd want to watch mobile TV on. But I can definitely get through Colbert or 30 Rock on it, and pretty much everything good (and bad) about the service comes through here: Resolution, clarity, content (yay CNN), etc. Yet, if you're really buying this phone because you're dying mobile TV, you should stick with the Vu (if you're paying $15-$30 a month for TV, I'm guessing the price difference is non-consequential for you).

The Vu has a bigger screen, enough said there—even though the Access is taller and wider, making it a tighter pocket fit (this won't fit in a hipster's jean pocket). (They both have lame proprietary headphone jacks though, grrr.) Also, the mobile TV signal is better with the Vu (tested by descending into the bowels of my apartment building), courtesy of the mondo antenna you can whip out to look like you're visiting from the 80s. And the Vu's only $100 more, plus is simply an overall richer phone. [AT&T]

The black level performance was probably not as good as the 81 series that uses LEDs (which I love.) But combined with the highly accurate colors, streaming of weather and stock data across the screen, 120Hz video processing, and excellent standard def processing earned this TV an Editor's Choice. The neggies? That same high gloss panel finish we've come to detest in daylight. Read the full review at [CNet. Samsung 6 and 7 series LCDs on Giz]

SEOUL, KOREA - April 30, 2008 - Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a leading mobile phone and No. 1 TV maker, announced today P960, the world's first slider type Digital Video Broadcast - Handheld (DVB-H) mobile TV phone P960. As a pioneer of slider mobile phones and TV, it was only a matter of course for Samsung to develop a device that contains both of its strongest strengths in one. P960 is also the world's first DVB-H mobile TV phone that supports both of European mobile TV standards, Digital Video Broadcast - Convergence of Broadcast and Mobile Service (DVB-CBMS) and Open Mobile Alliance Mobile Broadcast Service Enabler Suite (OMA-BCAST). DVB-CBMS is DVB Forum initiated DVB-H standard based on DVB-T standard, currently available in Italy through H3G, TI and Voda. It will soon become available in France, Belgium, Poland and Russia. OMA-BCAST is OMA initiated DVB-H standard known as the next generation DVB-H solution. It will first become available in Netherland and will continue to be adopted in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. P960 offers an optimized television-on-the-go experience with a large 2.6" QVGA TFT screen with vivid 262K color image-enhancing DNIe. TV watching experience is enriched by numerous innovative DVB-H features such as Electronic Service Guide (ESG) that provides an on-screen TV guide and Picture in Picture (PIP) that allows users to view two channels at once, and Time-Shifting feature that shifts TV program schedule when a show is interrupted by incoming calls. P960 also proudly features Bang & Olufsen ICEPower® technology for a professional quality audio experience. The battery life of 1200mAh ensures up to 5 hours of TV watching time. In addition to DVB-H technologies, P960 also offers satisfying entertainment features to meet even end-users needs. A 3 megapixel camera with power LED, a music player with Music Library feature and codec support, a FM radio with RDS for around the clock news and music, are all included in P960 to provide the users convenience and enhancement in both audio and visual entertainment life. As Samsung mobile's well-known reputation, P960 does not compromise an outstanding design with technologies. The device features all the up-to-date technologies within a slim 16.7mm thin metal body, softly brushed with hairline pattern. Geesung Choi, President of Samsung's Telecom Business said P960 is a milestone for mobile TV technology, as the launch of the device will signify the beginning of DVB-H phone era in Europe. "Samsung has already achieved a stable No. 1 leader position in Korea as the mobile TV phone provider. There is no doubt Samsung will continue the success in Europe with P960."

SAMSUNG INTRODUCES "TOUCH OF COLOR" MONITORS FOR BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS Artisan design meets technology in these new desktop monitors New York - April 23, 2008 - Samsung Electronics America, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Corporation, the number one worldwide brand of professional LCD display products, announced today the launch of its "Touch Of Color" (TOC) line of desktop monitors: the T190, T220, T240 and T260. Delivering industry-leading performance to design-conscious markets, these ultra-sleek monitors advance Samsung's signature style with a unique edge, uncluttered minimalist design and a deep ruby red infusion that complements its piano-black, glossy finish giving it a blown glass look. Designed to be extremely energy efficient, the TOC monitors employ the unique SoftPower off function, which allows the user to immediately put the monitor into standby mode, while expending only 0.3 watts of power. Enhanced picture features include a maximum contrast ratio of 20,000:1, MagicColor intelligent color control and MagicBright Dynamic Contrast control. TOC monitors also offer custom, user-selectable capabilities such as aspect ratio adjustments, new MagicTune functions for display settings and hot keys. The 2ms GTG response (T190, T220) and 5ms response (T240, T260) ensures blur-free imagery. In addition, the T240 and T260 offer an HDMI connection for peripheral devices and lower power consumption capabilities in Operating Mode, which is up to 50% less than other typical monitors of the same size in the market. The TOC monitors also feature the multi screen functionality. Allowing users to divide their screen into different workstations, sorting programs and projects to increase their productivity with no additional software needed. TOC is created using a manufacturing technique in which a hint of amber coloring is applied to the front of the translucent cabinet infusing its clean, glass- like finish with a deep ruby red hue. The slim panel and soft curvature of these monitors' overall design combine to form an elegant and stylish aesthetic. "With our new Touch of Color monitors, Samsung maintains the industry standard for design and functionality," said Christopher Franey, Vice President, Marketing & Commercial Sales, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. "Our monitors' sleek, minimalist design and deep ruby red accent compliment stylish home and office environments alike. In developing the TOC monitors we did not compromise or sacrifice aesthetics for functionality but instead, achieved the best of both." These high-end contemporary monitors are available for the following prices: T190: ESP $259 T220: ESP $359 T240: ESP $499 T260: ESP $599 The T220 and T190 are currently available, while the T240 and T260 will be available at the end of July, both through Samsung resellers and distribution channels, which can be located by calling 1-800-SAMSUNG or by visiting www.samsung.com.

Series 4 LCD — Low-End 720p
• 18.9": $429
• 21.9": $549
• 26.0": $749
• 31.5": $899
• 37.0": $1199
• 39.9": $1299

Series 5 LCD — Low-End 1080p
• 31.5": $1,099.99
• 37.1": $1,399.99
• 40.0": $1,699.99
• 46.0": $1,999.99
• 52.2": $2,799.99

Series 6 LCD — High-End 1080p
• 19.0": $479.99
• 22.0": $649.99
• 31.5": $1,299.99
• 39.9": $2,299.99
• 45.9": $2,899.99
• 52.2": $3,199.99

Series 7 LCD — Top of the line
• 39.9": $2,599.99
• 45.9": $3,199.99
• 52.0": $3,499.99

Series 4 Plasma — Low-End 720p, 3D Ready
• 42": $1,199
• 50": $1,699

Series 5 Plasma — Low-End 1080p, 3D Ready
• 50": $2299
• 58": $3599

Series 6 Plasma — High End 1080p
• 50": $2,599.99
• 58": $3,999.99
• 63": $4,999.99

Yep, the Open Mobile Video Coalition wants the Advanced Television Systems Committee to explore three technologies we've maybe only talked in passing before:
• LG/Harris' MPH (Mobile-Pedestrian-Handheld)
• Samsung/Rohde & Schwarz's A-VSB
• Thomson/Micronas' variant of the European standard DVB-Handheld

So yes, if the plan is implemented, it means we will someday catch up to where Korea and Europe already are. Since big CE players are already involved in these technologies elsewhere, it wouldn't be costly for them to add the functionality to US product lines—a premium of around $10 per device.

For broadcasters already dealing with the digital switchover, adding $100K in hardware to their terrestrial broadcasting stations wouldn't be such a big deal, especially since it would help them tap into potentially $2 billion in ad revenue. (Unlike cable, local broadcasters are dealing with big revenue falls every quarter, including a 17% dip at the end of 2007.)

The question is, would you watch the stuff even if it were free? Qualcomm's MediaFLO is already an option with Verizon and AT&T, but I don't know many (any?) people who sign up for it. Also, who relies on local TV anymore? Gone are the days when Ron Burgundy and the KVWN Channel Four News Team reigned supreme. [AP]

GSM/EDGE Tri-band (900/1800/1900)
2.1" 262K QVGA TFT-LCD display
2-megapixel FF CMOS Camera
Dual Stand-By Call with 2 Cores
Bluetooth 2.0 / USB 2.0 Full Speed
Stereo FM Radio
MP3/WMA/e-AAC+ Music Player
Mobile Printing (BPP, PictBridge)
Bluetooth Stereo Headset (A2DP)
Memory
External Memory : microSD (up to 2 GB)
Measures 115 x 49.6 x 15.7mm

Available in either black or silver, there is no info as to whether we'll see the D780 Stateside yet. [Samsung Press Release]

It's actually a pretty nifty UI feature, though it doesn't quite make up for the browser's other flaws—zooming could be much better and no portrait mode, though we're told they're working on both (pop-up keys on the keyboard might be on the way, too). We were also told that the platform will be continually evolving and show up on other Sprint devices, so at least theoretically it's only going to get better. [Instinct Coverage @ Giz]

There's no accelerometer and website viewing is landscape only (conversely, navigation is portrait only). No pinching or pulling, either, you tap a zoom button multiple times to get the level you want. Bleh. It tries to make up for being less dynamic with a mode that lets you pan through a site by moving the phone around, using the camera as the sensor. But, it didn't quite work, at least not for Giz, which loaded painfully slow, despite the 3G connection.

Haptic feedback has a lighter touch than the Voyager, though when you scroll through a list, it does this weird undulating vibration wave throughout the entire phone, which is both neat and slightly unnerving. Since it's so beta (dare I say buggy?), it's hard to gauge its true iPhone-killing potential right now, but we'll be keeping our eye on it. (Props to Dave Zatz for letting us jack his iPhone for the size-off.)

The Instinct rocks EV-DO Rev A and GPS, in both cases besting what's in the fruit phone. And then content and app wise, Sprint's own wares are basically swapped in for Apple's: Sprint Music Store, Navigation, TV, Visual Voicemail and a full HTML web browser—everything except a la carte music included in the $100 monthly subscription fee. EVERYTHING. On top of that, its customizable homescreen is amazing (and actually customizable, unlike other similar phones). You can check out all of the iPhone-like attributes in our 20-screenshot gallery. We'll be getting our fingerprints on one shortly, but in the meantime, there are more pics and hard data after the jump, uhhhh, fool.

More body shots:

Samsung Instinct™
The Ultimate in Touch Screen Speed and Simplicity

Samsung Instinct, exclusively from Sprint, offers consumers an industry-leading user experience by combining full touch screen functionality with access to the fast speed of Sprint's EV-DO Rev A Mobile Broadband Network. Samsung Instinct provides easy access to Sprint exclusive multimedia content, business or personal email, GPS navigation, live and on-demand TV content, full song downloads, streaming radio and an impressive HTML Web experience. Samsung Instinct offers localized haptic feedback and a new level of customization by allowing the user to access their favorite applications with a single touch. This stylish handset provides an expansive touch screen display and three navigation keys that keep all of the device's features and applications within immediate access. Samsung Instinct offers Visual Voicemail, stereo Bluetooth® with audible caller ID, expandable memory up to 8 GB and a 2.0MP camera with camcorder.

ENTERTAINMENT/PERSONALIZATION
• Sprint TV® with an extensive selection of live and on-demand programming including Sprint Exclusive Entertainment (SEE), the industry's only made-for-mobile sports and entertainment video
programming network
• Sprint Music StoreSM allowing users to wirelessly download full-length songs directly to their phone for just 99 cents each
• More than a dozen streaming-radio applications, including Sprint Radio with more than 150 channels
• Sprint Media Manager PC to phone transfer application
• Background music mode allowing the user to play music while text messaging, playing games or surfing the Internet
• Customizable Favorites menu

PRODUCTIVITY
• Sprint Navigation with GPS-enabled audio and visual turn-by-turn driving directions, one-click traffic rerouting and more than 10 million local listings
• Live Search for Sprint, powered by Microsoft, provides easy access to directory information, integrated GPS-enabled directions, interactive maps and one-touch click to call access
• Voice to Action button providing many functions using voice activation including call, text, picture messaging, traffic, movie, sports, news and search.
• HTML Web browsing
• Visual Voicemail allowing users to listen to messages in their order of preference and manage them with a tap of the screen
• 2.0 megapixel camera with 2x digital zoom and video camcorder
• Advanced Stereo Bluetooth® Wireless Technology with audio caller ID
• Access to corporate and consumer (POP3) email including AOL, Gmail and Yahoo!
• Threaded text messaging provides a view of the full conversation
• Mobile Sync to restore contact information if the device is lost, stolen or damaged
• Phone as Modem connects the phone with a computer for Internet and email access

SPECIFICATIONS
• Dimensions: 2.17 x 4.57 x 0.49 inches; 4.4 ounces
• Display: 3.1" TFT (240 x 432 pixels and 262K vibrant colors)
• Standard Lithium (LiIon) battery: up to 5.75 hours continuous talk time*

Garmin(R) Provides Navigator for Samsung Mobile Phones

OLATHE, KA UNITED STATES

LAS VEGAS, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Garmin International
Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite
navigation, announced today that select Samsung mobile phones will have the
benefit of Garmin's intuitive turn-by-turn, voice-prompted navigation
directly on the phone. Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin is based on the
popular Garmin Mobile(TM) XT navigation software, and Samsung phones with
this navigation capability are expected to be available in Europe and other
parts of the world in several months. Garmin will display the Samsung i780
and other examples of its mobile phone navigation solutions April 1-3,
2008, at the CTIA Wireless trade show in Las Vegas.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061026/CGTH082LOGO)

"Garmin is pleased to offer Samsung users a rich navigation experience
with the same intuitive user interface found on other Garmin personal
navigation devices," said Roger Jollis, Garmin's director of OEM & mobile
marketing. "Garmin's on-board and off-board phone navigation solutions are
now available on over 500 different handsets, including Samsung mobile
phones."

"We are pleased to provide Garmin's advanced navigation feature on
Samsung's i780 and other Windows Mobile based smartphones recently
introduced to the European market. As navigation features become rapidly
popular among various mobile features, Samsung is continuously investing to
provide the best of experience to our consumers," said YongBae Lee, vice
president of mobile communication division, Samsung Electronics, of Samsung
Electronics.

Marketed in major European countries, the Samsung i780 has a sleek
design packed with the latest in business and consumer features including
global positioning system (GPS) navigation, fast HSDPA and EDGE
connectivity, Bluetooth, 802.11b and g wireless capabilities, full touch
screen with stylus, QWERTY key pad, Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.0
Professional operating system, 2.0-megapixel camera and front camera for
video calls. The i780 also delivers full Internet browsing, MP3 music and
FM radio.

The Garmin navigation software is on a plug-and-play microSD card, and
once a customer loads the card into the phone, the software automatically
installs. Customers may then use their phone to receive voice-prompted,
turn-by-turn directions to their destination. A 3D moving map on the
phone's display shows the user exactly where they are, and if a turn is
missed along the way, Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin automatically
calculates a new route. Users may key in a specific street address or
search millions of points of interest (POI) — places like hotels,
restaurants, shopping, and tourist attractions. Customers can also dial the
POI's phone number automatically — for reservations, hours of operation,
or other information.

Those using Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin also have access to
Garmin Online(TM), a free and subscription based online service that offers
dynamic content such as traffic, weather forecasts and safety cameras.
Garmin Online content varies by region.

Garmin Mobile(TM) Application to Offer New Features on BlackBerry, Symbian and Windows Mobile Smartphones OLATHE, KA UNITED STATES

LAS VEGAS, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Garmin International
Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite
navigation, announced today upgrades to Garmin Mobile that include a new
user-friendly interface and Google Local(TM) search. These upgrades will be
available on a variety of handsets and platforms including BlackBerry,
Symbian and Windows Mobile smartphones. These new features are in addition
to a long list of rich features and real-time content included with Garmin
Mobile's current subscription based service that includes turn-by-turn,
voice prompted directions, as well as traffic, weather conditions and
forecasts, fuel prices and more. Garmin will display the Garmin Mobile
enhancements at its CTIA Wireless trade show booth (#6639) in Las Vegas,
Nevada, April 1-3, 2008.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061026/CGTH082LOGO)

When the new Garmin Mobile application is launched, customers will
first notice the new nuvi-like interface, with "Where To?" and "View Map"
icons on the smartphone display. Once "Where To?" is selected, colorful
icons such as "Address," "Recent Finds," "Food and Hotel" and "Google
Local" streamline the number of keystrokes required before selecting a
destination and receiving turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions. If a
turn is missed en route, Garmin Mobile automatically recalculates the route
based on the user's current location. Garmin Mobile has an extensive points
of interest database — places like hotels, restaurants, ATMs, gas
stations, airports, and more — thanks to the over six-million integrated
points of interest and Google Local search. Garmin Mobile is also
integrated with the phone's address book so that users can navigate
directly to a contact's address stored on their smartphone.

The Google Local search capability lets users harness points of
interest information via the World Wide Web. It allows users to look for
locations by typing in key word searches as they would if they were on
their desktop computer. If looking for a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi
access, simply type the phrase in the search box and a list of venues will
appear based on proximity to the user's current location. In addition,
Garmin has created a "quick search" feature that lets users search Google
Local via categories — such as food, lodging, fuel, and more — rather
than typing a word or phrase into the Google Local search box. Detailed
information can be displayed including descriptions, business address &
phone numbers, and a user-contributed rating, where applicable. Once the
user selects a location, they can save the destination to their favorites
folder, call the destination, or navigate to it with Garmin's intuitive
turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions.

In addition to navigation, Garmin Mobile includes free access to
constantly-updating information like real-time traffic, fuel prices,
weather forecasts, and more.

Since Garmin Mobile is a subscription based solution, mapping data is
stored on Garmin's servers, not on the device itself. Therefore, customers
have the advantage of the most up-to-date mapping information available
directly from Garmin's servers. In order to access Garmin's network, the
smartphone must have a data plan for network access.

• enV2 by LG - The most legitimately new phone of the line is a sequel to the original enV, a bulky but fun text-messaging phone with QWERTY keyboard. This one is slimmer, with bigger keys, SDHC support for 8GB MicroSD cards, and better Bluetooth connectivity. Comes in "sophisticated" black or maroon - $130 after a $50 (mail-in?) rebate

• BlackBerry Curve 8330 - I love a good Curve as much as the next guy, especially one with EV-DO and SDHC support for MicroSDs up to 8GB. But it's going to be a hard one to squeeze in between the $200 Pearl and the $300 8830 World Edition - $270 after a $50 mail-in rebate

• Motorola Q9c - A less-colorful business-minded version of the supposedly media-friendly Q9m, this Windows Mobile 6 smartphone makes use of its aGPS chip by bundling in VZNavigator - $250 after a $50 mail-in rebate

• Windows Mobile XV6900 aka HTC Touch - Yes, the newest of at least 10 Windows Mobile devices in Verizon's lineup, is the one Sprint calls HTC Touch, which brings a marginal amount of touchy-feely finger navigation to the so-over-that WinMo interface - $350 after a $50 mail-in rebate

• Alias by Samsung - A silver version of the existing dual-flip-action SCH-u740, this one has an "updated easy-to-read full" QWERTY keyboard although the original one had some kind of QWERTY action, too - $130 after a $50 mail-in rebate

Don't tell me this is all you got, VZW!! If it is, well, at least you're soon gonna let us port phones from Sprint and Helio.

More info for the genuinely interested:

VERIZON WIRELESS AND LG INTRODUCE THE SLIM enV2™ BY LG

Successor to the Popular enV by LG, the Slim, Stylish enV2 Comes in Two Hot New Colors Along with Larger External Keys and Internal Display

LAS VEGAS, BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and SAN DIEGO - Ahead of CTIA WIRELESS 2008, Verizon Wireless, owner and operator of the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, and LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones) today announced the enV2™ by LG will be available in April, online at www.verizonwireless.com and at more than 2,400 Verizon Wireless Communications Stores across the nation, including those at Circuit City. The successor to the popular enV by LG, the new enV2 gets a makeover with a new slim redesign and sophisticated black or maroon finish.

The enV2 supports a number of features and services that customers have come to expect in wireless phones from LG and Verizon Wireless, including V CAST Music and Video, VZ NavigatorSM, Bluetooth® capabilities, dual speakers and a 2.0 megapixel camera. The phone's spacious QWERTY keypad with large sized external keys makes messaging easy, while its 2.4-inch internal screen offers crisp, crystal-clear videos and images.

The enV2 is the ideal multimedia device for music and video lovers. Verizon Wireless' V CAST Music store gives customers access to more than 2.8 million songs from both well-known and independent artists to download and blast on the phone's dual speakers. Music aficionados can enjoy the rich, full sound of their favorite tunes anywhere, anytime by simply pairing the enV2 with a Bluetooth Stereo headset or accessory. Customers can also record and save a variety of video clips that can easily be shared with family and friends by using the video recording capabilities on the enV2. A separately purchased external memory microSD™ card allows customers to store their own music or video clips on their phones and move them from their PCs to their phones.

"We are addressing the burgeoning texting trend by spending time asking what consumers want and expect from their mobile devices," said Mr. Ehtisham Rabbani, vice president of product strategy and marketing for LG Mobile Phones. "We know the texting audience wants a mobile device that is compact enough to slide easily into pant pockets and handbags without compromising the integrity of the phone's features. The slimmed-down enV2 offers everything consumers loved about the enV with the added benefit of a larger, more spacious internal screen with large easy-to-text keys."

Equipped with access to VZ NavigatorSM, enV2 is also a great companion when on-the-road.

VZ Navigator uses location-based services (LBS) to provide audible turn-by-turn navigation and the ability to find more than 14 million points of interest, from ATMs and gas stations to restaurants and tourist destinations. The enV2 by LG also offers the following features and capabilities:

* Mobile Web 2.0SM-capable - customizable, enhanced wireless access to the latest in news, sports, weather and more
* Get It Now®-capable - download games, ringtones, wallpapers and more
* Wireless Sync E-mail (BREW® e-mail Client) capability
* Instant Messaging using AIM®, WL Messenger®, and Yahoo!®
* 2.0 megapixel camera and camcorder:
o Self-Portrait capabilities and external LCD for self-portraits
o Camera Resolutions: 1600 x 1200 (default), 1280 x 960, 640 x 480, 320 x 240 pixels
o Image Editor - rotate, zoom, crop
o Digital Zoom: up to 10x (zoom varies by image size; camera setting of 1600 x 1200 pixels does not support zoom function)
o Video Resolutions: 320 x 240, 176 x 144 (default) pixels
o Video Player for WMV, MP4, 3GP, 3G2 formats
* Music Player for .mp3, .wma, and unprotected .aac and .aac + files
* microSD memory port with up to 8 GB support - store music, customer generated pictures and video (not all downloaded content may be moved to the microSD card)
* Supported Bluetooth Profiles - compatible with devices that support headset, hands-free,* dial-up networking, advanced audio distribution (stereo), phone book access, basic printing, basic imaging, object push for vCard and vCalendar and file transfer
* Auto view and Text to Speech, so text messages can be heard aloud
* 1,000 address book contacts with five numbers, two e-mail addresses and a Picture ID for each entry (Picture ID is dependent on photos stored in My Pictures)
* Function Key - customizable for 10 shortcuts
* Frequency: 1.9 GHz CDMA PCS, 800 MHz CDMA (Digital Dual-Band)
* Dimensions: 4.00" (h) x 2.13" (w) x 0.65" (d)
* Weight: 4.23 ounces
* Standard Battery: 950 mAh Li-Polymer
* Up to 320 minutes of usage time or up to 520 hours of standby time
* TTY/TDD support
* Hearing aid compatible (M3/T3-Rating)

The enV2 by LG will be available for $129.99 after a $50 rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

VERIZON WIRELESS INTRODUCES THE BLACKBERRY CURVE SMARTPHONE

Sophisticated Full-QWERTY BlackBerry Curve 8330 Delivers Uncompromising Communications, Rich Multimedia Features, VZ Navigator and Broadband Speeds

LAS VEGAS, BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and WATERLOO, Ontario - Ahead of CTIA WIRELESS 2008, Verizon Wireless, the owner and operator of the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, and Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation, today announced the BlackBerry® Curve™ 8330 smartphone will be available in May. Packaged in a liquid silver-colored finish with chrome highlights, smooth edges and soft curves, the BlackBerry Curve 8330 is backed by Verizon Wireless' high-speed Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) network. This small and light smartphone has rich multimedia capabilities and is VZ NavigatorSM-capable. VZ Navigator is Verizon Wireless' location-based service that offers customers mapping, audible turn-by-turn navigation and access to information on more than 14 million points of interest.

The BlackBerry Curve 8330, RIM's smallest and lightest full-QWERTY smartphone, combines stylish looks with the tools people need to manage their professional responsibilities, maintain personal communications and entertain their senses.

The BlackBerry Curve 8330 offers the following capabilities and key features:

* Small and light design that is easy to handle and use; measures 4.2" x 2.4" x 0.6"and weighs only 4 ounces
* Large, vibrant 320 x 240 display, with light sensing technology that automatically adjusts brightness for optimal viewing in outdoor, indoor, and dark environments
* Responsive, highly-tactile full-QWERTY keyboard and RIM's intuitive trackball navigation system
* Premium phone features including: noise cancellation technology to offset background noise, Speaker Independent Voice Recognition (SIVR) for Voice Activated Dialing (VAD), dedicated "send," "end," and "mute" keys, low-distortion speakerphone, and Bluetooth® 2.0, with support for hands-free headsets, stereo headsets (Bluetooth stereo audio profile A2DP/AVRCP), car kits and other Bluetooth accessories
* 2.0 megapixel camera with support for video recording*, self-portrait mirror, enhanced flash and 5X zoom
* Easy access to the popular Facebook® for BlackBerry® Smartphones application
* 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack and dedicated volume controls
* Advanced media player and enhanced desktop media manager software that makes it easy to move media files between a PC and the BlackBerry Curve 8330 - USB Data Cable comes in-box
* MicroSD™/SDHC memory card slot, providing plenty of additional storage (up to 8 GB)
* HTML web browser delivers a fast, rich browsing experience and supports streaming video from sites like m.youtube.com (3GPP RTSP streaming protocol over EV-DO)
* A removable, rechargeable battery, rated for up to 260 minutes of talk time and up to 11 days of standby time
* In-box accessories include: a stereo headset, travel charger and premium tote sleeve

The BlackBerry Curve 8330 smartphone is supported by BlackBerry® Internet Service that gives customers access to up to 10 supported POP3 and IMAP personal and corporate e-mail accounts, including most popular ISP e-mail accounts. It is also supported by BlackBerry® Professional Software for small businesses and BlackBerry® Enterprise Server for enterprise deployments, enabling advanced security and IT administration within IBM® Lotus® Domino®, Microsoft® Exchange and Novell® GroupWise® environments.

The BlackBerry Curve 8330 smartphone will be available at www.verizonwireless.com and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City, for $269.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. An additional $100 credit toward the purchase of the handset is available for customers who sign up for qualifying voice and data plans at the time of purchase. Customers who purchase a Verizon Wireless Nationwide voice plan can also subscribe to the E-Mail and Web for BlackBerry plan for an additional $29.99 per month while those opting for a data-only plan can pay $34.99 per month for unlimited e-mail and access to the Internet.

For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com. Business customers should contact a Verizon Wireless Business Sales Representative directly at 1-800-VZW-4BIZ.

* Video recording requires a microSD memory card, sold separately.

VERIZON WIRELESS EXPANDS ITS MOTO Q LINE-UP WITH THE ADDITION OF THE MOTO Q 9C

Sleek MOTO Q 9c Smartphone Keeps Busy Professionals on Track with GPS Navigation

LAS VEGAS, BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. - Ahead of CTIA WIRELESS 2008, Verizon Wireless, the owner and operator of the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, and Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) announced today the April availability of the MOTO™ Q 9c, the newest addition to Verizon Wireless' MOTO Q family, that comes equipped with Verizon Wireless' popular VZ NavigatorSM service. Customers may purchase MOTO Q 9c in April through Verizon Wireless business sales channels, at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, and online at www.verizonwireless.com.

Similar to its predecessors - the exclusive MOTO Q 9m and the original MOTO Q - the MOTO Q 9c from Verizon Wireless offers professionals an indispensable productivity tool wrapped in a sleek and fashionable design. The MOTO Q 9c is the ideal smartphone for business professionals who are on-the-road and offers powerful capabilities, including access to more than 14 million points of interest with Verizon Wireless' VZ Navigator service. Customers can receive visual and audible turn-by-turn directions to a destination, locate business meeting destinations, ATMs, restaurants, and other places in an area, get a map of a location, bookmark favorites and recent searches, and even share locations with others - all from their MOTO Q 9c smartphones.

MOTO Q 9c operates on Verizon Wireless' wireless broadband network and features Windows Mobile® 6 Standard software, which offers customers a robust and familiar experience to help manage their lives by staying connected to their contacts, calendar and entertainment. With Windows Mobile 6.0, customers are able to easily configure virtually any POP3 or IMAP4 e-mail accounts, and they can read, edit, and create Microsoft® Word®, Excel® and PowerPoint® documents via the Documents To Go® application.

"Verizon Wireless has embraced the MOTO Q family, recognizing that not all smartphone users have the same priorities. Verizon Wireless customers can find the MOTO Q that meets their multi-tasking needs, while on-the-go," said Juergen Stark, corporate vice president of Productivity, Mobile Devices, Motorola, Inc.

MOTO Q 9c offers all of these features wrapped in a sturdy design. The optimized QWERTY keyboard on MOTO Q 9c has been engineered for fast and accurate typing, with dedicated "hot keys" for shortcuts to popular applications, including e-mail, multimedia and Internet. The handset's large 2.4-inch color display boasts innovative adaptive technology to automatically adjust for optimized brightness in indoor or outdoor lighting conditions to maximize battery life. MOTO Q 9c also offers a 1.3 megapixel camera with flash and fixed focus as well as video capture and playback. With MOTO Q 9c phone's 128 MB of on-board memory and optional removable memory future-proofed up to 32 GB, sold separately, customers have plenty of room to store their photos and other multimedia.

MOTO Q 9c also combines advanced phone capabilities, such as voice-activated dialing, smart contacts dialing, speakerphone, and Stereo Bluetooth® wireless technology supporting both Bluetooth A2DP and AVRCP profiles.*

Pricing

MOTO Q 9c will be available online and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City, for $249.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate and a new two-year customer agreement. An additional $100 credit toward the purchase of the handset is available for customers who sign up for qualifying voice and data plans at the time of purchase. Verizon Wireless Nationwide E-mail plans for MOTO Q 9c begin at $79.99 for 450 anytime voice minutes and unlimited e-mail. VZ Navigator is available for $9.99 for monthly access.

VERIZON WIRELESS UNVEILS STYLISH, INTUITIVE XV6900 FOR MOBILE PROFESSIONALS

The XV6900 Features an Easy-to-Use Touch-Screen, Simple User Interface, and Quick Access to Games, E-Mail and More

LAS VEGAS and BASKING RIDGE, N.J. - Ahead of CTIA WIRELESS 2008, Verizon Wireless, the owner and operator of the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, today announced the XV6900 will be available in April through Verizon Wireless business sales channels, at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at www.verizonwireless.com. The Verizon Wireless XV6900 is a stylish, compact and versatile touch-screen phone, optimized for easy navigation with the swipe of a finger and runs on Verizon Wireless' network, which gives the pure white XV6900 fast Internet and e-mail connectivity.

The XV6900 from Verizon Wireless takes touch to the next level with smooth navigation. Whether customers are accessing local weather reports, navigating to the Internet, flipping through photos, or one-touch dialing of loved ones, they can interact with a myriad of the XV6900's features with just a flick of their fingers.

The Verizon Wireless XV6900 leverages the broad functionality and communication capabilities of Windows Mobile® 6 Professional with access to Outlook Mobile® for smooth e-mail integration, Office Mobile and the ability to run a bevy of third-party applications. Verizon Wireless customers will also have the ability to surf the Web through Internet Explorer® Mobile, send and receive e-mails or chat on popular Messenger services including AIM®, MSN®, Yahoo!®. Designed with the sophisticated customer in mind, the Verizon Wireless XV6900 allows customers to view and edit Microsoft Word® and Excel® files, as well as view Microsoft PowerPoint®, Adobe® Reader® LE PDF Viewer and view, extract and create new ZIP files and attachments. The intuitive home screen on the XV6900 provides one-touch access to e-mail, text messages, calendar appointments and contacts, as well as current weather conditions and forecasts for hundreds of cities around the world.

Additional features of the XV6900 include:

* Built-in speakerphone
* Bluetooth® v. 2.0 with support for stereo, hands-free, and headset profiles
* microSD™ memory card slot with support up to 8 GB
* 2.0 megapixel camera with video capture
* 256 MB ROM / 128 MB RAM
* 2.8" TFT-LCD touch-screen with LED backlight
* 3.98" (l) x 2.35" (w) x 0.56" (d)
* Support for Office Outlook Mobile and Microsoft Exchange® with Direct Push

The XV6900 will be available online and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City, for $349.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. An additional $100 credit toward the purchase of the handset is available for customers who sign up for qualifying voice and data plans at the time of purchase.

VERIZON WIRELESS INTRODUCES THE ALIAS™ BY SAMSUNG

Slim, Dual-Hinge Flip Phone Gets Updated Full-QWERTY Keyboard and Stylish Silver Finish

LAS VEGAS, BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and DALLAS - Ahead of CTIA WIRELESS 2008, Verizon Wireless, the owner and operator of the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung) announced the Alias™ by Samsung will be available in mid-April. The successor to the popular Samsung SCH-u740, the Alias will be available online at www.verizonwireless.com or in any of the 2,400 Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City.

The Alias sports the familiar dual-hinge design of the SCH-u740 but is packaged in a cool silver finish and features an updated easy-to-read full-QWERTY keyboard, making the phone ideal for sending text messages and e-mails. When customers open the Alias vertically, the phone is a sleek and stylish clamshell phone.

When the Alias is opened horizontally, the QWERTY keyboard is revealed to show its new color-defined numbers and letters. In addition to sending text messages, customers can use Wireless Sync, Verizon Wireless' proprietary personal information management solution, to synchronize their phones with their home or office PCs for easy access to e-mail, calendar, contacts and task information. The horizontal view is ideal for using the Alias' multimedia features, including Verizon Wireless' V CAST Music and Video services. With V CAST Music, customers can choose from more than 2.8 million songs from well-known and independent artists to download over-the-air directly to their phones or transfer their own music collection from their PCs to their phones. With V CAST Video, customers can download or stream video clips from the best names in news, sports and entertainment.

Additional features of the Alias include:

* 1.3 megapixel digital camera with flash
* Camcorder
* Get It Now® - downloadable games, ringtones, wallpapers, location-based services and more
* Mobile Web 2.0SM - customizable, enhanced wireless Internet access to the latest in news, sports, weather and more
* Instant Messaging using AIM®, MSN®, Yahoo!®
* Text, picture and video messaging
* Bluetooth wireless technology - Object Push Profile for vCard, headset, car kits, serial port and certain dial-up networking profiles
* Expandable memory with external microSD™ card slot
* Dimensions: 3.8" x 2.04" x .58"; 3.65 ounces with standard battery
* Bilingual user interface: English and Spanish
* TTY/TTD Capable
* Personal organizer with Calendar, Calculator, Notepad, Currency Converter, Alarm Clock, World Time and Stop Watch

The Alias will be available in mid-April for $129.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or visit www.verizonwireless.com.

SAMSUNG AND AT&T ANNOUNCE THE SAMSUNG ACCESS™ First Samsung handset to support AT&T Mobile TV

DALLAS, March 27, 2007 — Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung) today announced the exclusive availability of the Samsung Access™, Samsung's first device to support AT&T Mobile TV, a mobile television service featuring high-quality programming.

The sophisticated and sleek Access is a bar-style phone with a slick black finish and large, crisp and clear 2.3" landscape display comparable to DVD quality, ideal for viewing multimedia content, and exceptional television reception without the need for external antenna. AT&T Mobile TV is easily accessible to users with a one-touch button which brings them directly to full-length television content and sporting events from top networks, including programming from leading entertainment brands CBS Mobile, Comedy Central, ESPN Mobile TV, FOX Mobile, MTV, NBC 2GO, NBC News2Go and Nickelodeon. AT&T Mobile TV will also feature two exclusive channels, which will be announced soon.

The Access is a robust multimedia device and includes features such as Video Share™ AT&T Mobile Music, stereo Bluetooth ® technology, external stereo speakers, external memory microSD™ card slot and 1.3 megapixel camera with video record. With advanced messaging options such as multimedia messaging, instant messaging and mobile e-mail, the Access is a powerful communication device.

The Access also features dual-band 3G connectivity and quad-band GSM technology, which allows AT&T customers to make calls in more than 200 countries and download data in more than 145.

The Access will be available through select AT&T retail locations or athttp://www.att.com/wireless beginning in May 2008. To learn more about AT&T's other mobile entertainment offerings, visit www.wireless.att.com/entertainment .

24mm ultra optical wide 3.6x zoom lens
1280x720p supported at 30fps
Samsung's DRIM Engine II for image speed and clarity
HD-level stereo video recording
Full HD images via upgraded HDMI
Face Detection function for portrait shots
Automatic shooting function for smiling face recognition
Red-eye fix

No guidelines to price or availability so far, but hey, that's an Asian Orlando Bloom, so who cares? [AVING]

With just three actual buttons at the bottom, it relies mainly on a touch interface that you can customize (if you know Korean), with drag-and-drop desktop building. In the force feedback dept., it uses a vocabulary of 22 different vibrations to simulate actual feels and actions. When you see a volume knob for the radio and reach to turn it, you hear and feel the clicks of an old-timey dial.

The phone, which includes a terrestrial broadcast TV receiver, is going to sell for $700 to $800 and is Korea only—but for how long? Bring it, Sammy! We're waiting. [AP; NewLaunches]

March 20, 2008 News Release 08-027 Inv. No. 337-TA-640

ITC INSTITUTES SECTION 337 INVESTIGATION ON CERTAIN SHORT-WAVELENGTH LIGHT EMITTING DIODES, LASER DIODES AND PRODUCTS CONTAINING SAME

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has voted to institute an investigation of certain short-wavelength light emitting diodes, laser diodes, and products containing same. The products at issue in this investigation are short-wavelength (e.g., blue, violet) LEDs and laser diodes that are used in products such as hand-held mobile devices, instrument panels, billboards, traffic lights, HD DVD players (e.g., Blu-ray disc players), and data storage devices.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Gertrude Neumark Rothschild of Hartsdale, NY, on February 20, 2008. The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States of certain short-wavelength light emitting diodes, laser diodes, and products containing same that infringe a patent owned by Rothschild. The complainant requests that the ITC issue exclusion orders and cease and desist orders.

The ITC has identified the following as respondents in this investigation:

Avago Technologies of Singapore;
Bacol Optoelectonic Co. Ltd. of Taiwan;
Dominant Semiconductors Sdn. Bhd. of Malaysia;
Everlight Electronics Co., Ltd., of Taiwan;
Exceed Perseverance Electronic Ind. Co., Ltd., of China;
Guangzhou Hongli Opto-Electronic Co., Ltd., of China;
Harvatek Internaional Inc. of Taiwan;
Hitachi, Ltd., of Japan;
Kingbright Electronic Co., Ltd., of Taiwan;
LG Electronics of Korea;
Lite-On Technology Corp. of Taiwan;
Lucky Light Electronics Co., Ltd., of China;
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., of Japan;
Motorola, Inc., of Schaumburg, IL;
Nokia of Finland;
Opto Tech Corporation of Taiwan;
Pioneer Corporation of Japan;
Rohm Co., Ltd., of Japan;
Samsung Group of Korea;
Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., of Japan;
Seoul Semiconductor Co., Ltd., of Korea;
Sharp Corporation of Japan;
Shenzhen Unilight Electronic Co., Ltd., of China;
Shinano Kenshi Co., Ltd., of Japan;
Sony Corporation of Japan;
Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB of Sweden;
Stanley Electric Co., Ltd., of Japan;
Toshiba Corporation of Japan;
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., of Malvern, PA; and
Yellow Stone Corporation of Taiwan.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-640), the ITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The case will be referred to the Honorable Paul J. Luckern, an ITC administrative law judge, who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. Judge Luckern will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission.

The ITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the ITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. ITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

[USITC via Reuters]