By Sprint has announced a new Android phone called the Express. It’s an Android 2.3 device that has a 2.6 inch touchscreen but also has a portrait exposed QWERTY backlit keyboard beneath that. Call end and send buttons, buttons for home, menu, back and search all grace the front of the device. There also seems to be some sort of button in the middle, perhaps an optical trackpad + selection button.
For specs, we’re not given much information, performance wise. No information regarding the amount of RAM, processor type and speed or amount of internal storage was given. We can at least confirm there’s Bluetooth 2.1, WiFi N, GPS, a 1,500 mAh battery and a 3.2 megapixel rear camera. [Update]: We’re hearing there’s a 600MHz processor which sounds about right for entry level phones.
The phone was designed with the entry level consumer in mind so don’t expect the type of performance you get on phones like the Motorola Titanium or the Motorola Xprt. Still, for $20 on a new two-year agreement there isn’t much room for complaining. It’s already in stores so be sure to take a look if you find it interesting. Find the full press details below.
Express from Sprint™ Available Today for Just $19.99, Provides a Customizable Experience with Android 2.3 Featuring Sprint IDExpress from Sprint™ is available today via Sprint Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1), Web Sales (www.sprint.com) and can be ordered in any Sprint retail store. It costs just $19.99 (excluding taxes) with a new-line activation (or eligible upgrade), on an Everything Data Plan with Premium Data add-on and two-year agreement after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1.Express from Sprint is an ultra-affordable candy bar style device boasting Android 2.3 and featuring Sprint ID, which takes mobile phone customization to a new level. It features a 2.6-inch capacitive touch display, full QWERTY keyboard and access to select Sprint ID packs. It’s an easy-to-use smartphone for the socially connected consumer.
Key features include:
- Android 2.3, Gingerbread, featuring Sprint ID customizable user interface
- Full QWERTY keyboard
- 2.6-inch capacitive touch display
- 3.2MP camera with flash and camcorder to capture the moments instantly
- 3G hotspot capability for up to five devices simultaneously
- Wi-Fi b/g/n capable
- Large battery for maximizing phone’s potential (1500mAh Li-Ion)
Sprint ID is a unique, simplified way to find apps and to customize wireless devices. Sprint ID packs deliver a variety of apps, widgets, shortcuts, ringtones and wallpapers – designed to meet users’ specific mobile needs and interests – in a few simple clicks. Sprint ID packs are free to download with an Everything Data plan and users can download five at once. To see all Sprint ID packs, visit www.sprint.com/sprintid.
Express from Sprint requires activation on one of the Sprint Everything Data plans plus a required $10 per month Premium Data add-on charge for smartphones. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited Web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 per month Premium Data add-on charge – a savings of $40 per month vs. Verizon’s comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and 2GB Web, or $10 per month vs. Verizon’s 450-minute plan with unlimited text and 2GB Web.
The mobile hotspot option is available for an additional $29.99 per month supporting up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously. Monthly mobile hotspot data usage is limited to 5GB of data while on the Sprint network2.
1The American Express Prepaid Reward Card (“Card”) provided in connection with this Rebate offer is a prepaid Card that is usable only at U.S. merchants that accept American Express Cards. Some limitations apply. Offer valid only in the United States and Puerto Rico. The Card is not redeemable for cash (except where required by law) and does not provide ATM access. Use of Card constitutes acknowledgement that it is given as a reward and no consideration, value, or money has been paid by the holder to American Express in exchange for this Card. USE OF CARD IS SUBJECT TO THE CARDHOLDER AGREEMENT. SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE LAW, A $3.00 MONTHLY FEE WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST CARD BALANCE, STARTING SIX MONTHS AFTER CARD ISSUANCE. Card expires six years after the date of issuance if not depleted before. For BALANCE, customer service and Cardholder Agreement, visit americanexpress.com/sprint or call 866-608-3756. Card issued by AEPCMC under license from American Express Prepaid Card Management Corporation, Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
2On-network overage charges are $0.05/MB. Off-network roaming is limited to 100MB per month. Off-network overage charges are $0.25 per/MB.
why pay $70+/month including a $10 “premium data fee” only to scrimp and buy a $20 crappy smartphone to consume the data through? this is like buying a $500 bottle of fine scotch only to sip it through an eyedropper. it’s a false economy. penny wise and pound foolish!
entry level usually means kids. If you have kids, you’re most likely on a budget these days. $20 device on a $30 add a line is exactly where youll meet most parents. Add in a parent child cellphone agreement and youve got yourself a winner. Now, lets talk phone connect vs your landlineand get any mobile anytime when your kid calls home :)
Even with family plan, still not worth it with extra $10/Mon.
This phone is direct ship only it is not in the stores.
$20 + 2 year contract seems to much for that phone
Shit ass phone