Motorola ic502 Buzz
Sprint Officially Launches Dual Mode Phones
Sprint today officially launched its dual mode iDEN / CDMA service and handsets today, though the phones have been on sale for a month now. These phones use Sprint's CDMA network for standard phone calls and data and the iDEN network for all walkie-talkie type services. Instead of offering separate price plans for these hybrid phones, customers will be able to choose any Sprint plan and get free unlimited walkie talkie service with any plan over $40. However features like group walkie talkie and others will cost extra. Sprint has given each of the new phones names - the iC 402 is called Blend and the iC 502 is now called Buzz.
CES 2007 + iPhone
Phone Scoop reports from CES 2007 in Las Vegas, plus the Apple iPhone. New phones from Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, Nokia, LG and UTStarcom. Plus videos of NFC, Mobile TV and Video Sharing in action.
Sprint Launches CDMA iDEN Hybrid Handset
Nextel today launched the ic502, the company's first phone to merge iDEN and CDMA networks. The ic502 is a ruggedized clamshell with an external antenna. The ic502 features an external 2-line monochrome display and an internal color screen as well as speakerphone. It's most noteworthy feature is one that cannot be seen. The ic502 uses the iDEN network for walkie talkie functions and the CDMA network for voice calls and data, although data is limited to 1xRTT. However 1xRTT data is faster the WiDEN's maximum data speeds. The ic502 will initially be available through Nextel in limited markets including Boston, Miami, New York City, San Diego, Washington DC and additional smaller metro areas.
First Dual Mode iDEN / CDMA Phone Revealed
The FCC Friday approved the first dual mode handset that will use both Sprint and Nextel's network. The IC502 will use Sprint's CDMA network for traditional voice calls as well as for data access and will use the iDEN network for all Push To Talk features. The IC502 is relatively simple clamshell phone with dual displays and no advanced features other than 1xRTT data for browsing and other online applications. Otherwise, it appears to retain the look and feel of Nextel's handsets. In March, Sprint announced they intend to launch this phone and possibly other similar dual mode models by October of this year.
