Kyocera Brio Messaging Phone Goes Live at Sprint, Available for Free

Kyocera Brio is the second handset announced by Sprint, after the budget Android smartphone Kyocera Milano made its debut on its airwaves.

However, the Brio is a basic feature-phone that offers users standard phone features along with a full portrait QWERTY keyboard.

The phone is available for free via Sprint, with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade and after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card.

Aimed at heavy texters and users who prefer a simple way to stay connected with their friends and families, Kyocera Brio can be obtained from all Sprint retail channels, including web beginning today.

“At Sprint, we strive to offer an ideal wireless device for every customer’s needs, including those who prefer simplicity without sacrificing style or substance. The Kyocera Milano bridges the gap from feature phone to Android smartphone, making it ideal for those just starting to make the switch. Kyocera Brio focuses on a truly effortless wireless experience,” said David Owens, vice president-Product Development, Sprint.

The handset features a candybar form factor and provides users with the means to text much faster than regular phones via a curved QWERTY keyboard and contoured keys.

Unfortunately, little can be obtained with its 1.3-megapixel photo snapper other than some sub-par pictures. In addition, the phone features microSD card slot for memory expansion (up to 32GB), as well as Blueooth 2.0 connectivity.

Furthermore, the device may be the perfect choice for parents who want to equip their children with a simple device that does its job well. In this regard, the cheap Kyocera Brio comes with parental controls and Sprint Family Locator.

According to Sprint, customers who choose the Kyocera Brio are required to sign up for Talk plans starting at $39.99 per month and Everything Messaging plans that include voice services and unlimited messaging starting at $49.99 per month.