Samsung i600 Windows-Powered Smart Phone Available Now from Verizon

We are now seeing the release of the second pdaPhone based on the Microsoft Smartphone OS here in the US. Samsung has been releasing information about the SCH-i600 for months, and we have even been seeing information from Verizon, such as brochures in recent weeks. Verizon has finally officially launched the device. It joins the Motorola MPx200 as the two Smartphone based devices in the US.

Here is the annoucement...

BEDMINSTER, NJ, DALLAS, REDMOND, WA — For mobile professionals seeking a better all-in-one wireless phone with a familiar PC experience, Verizon Wireless, operator of the nation’s best, most reliable wireless network, today announced the exclusive availability of the Samsung SCH-i600 Smartphone. The i600 is the first Microsoft® Windows MobileTM-based Smartphone from Samsung.

The i600 is an integrated device with a sleek, clamshell design that combines Verizon Wireless’ NationalAccess service with Microsoft’s comprehensive Windows Mobile software which includes Pocket Outlook®, Pocket Internet Explorer, MSN® Messenger, Microsoft Windows Media PlayerTM and ActiveSync®. It also features an SDI/O Expansion Slot for memory expansion, added hardware accessories and additional applications that can be loaded on the device.

Through the end of this year, the i600 Smartphone will retail for $399.99 after a $100 instant rebate, with a two-year agreement on a calling plan of $39.99 or greater and the PDA/Smartphone unlimited NationalAccess plan at any Verizon Wireless Communications Store or by calling 1-800-2JOIN-IN. The PDA/Smartphone feature is available at $24.99 monthly for 5MB NationalAccess allowance or $44.99 for unlimited NationalAccess allowance when added to any calling plan of $39.99 or higher. A PDA/Smartphone plan is required to use NationalAccess and Wireless Sync services from Verizon Wireless. For more information on Verizon Wireless products and services visit www.verizonwireless.com.