Alltel Wireless announces that the innovative Fastap keypad, created by Digit Wireless, is now available exclusively for its customers on the LG AX490 phone. Available in Alltel retail stores and on shopalltel.com beginning Aug. 3, the LG AX490 is the only phone in the United States to feature this cutting-edge technology.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the Fastap keypad allows for dual levels of functionality by integrating the traditional 12-number keypad with raised buttons for each letter of the alphabet. The Fastap keyboard simplifies virtually every phone function and provides easier and faster access to mobile phone-based applications including Text Messaging, Instant Messaging, Picture and Web Browsing.

''Alltel Wireless strives to provide our customers with the very best in products and services, and we're excited to team with Digit Wireless to debut Fastap technology on the LG AX490 phone,'' said Frank O'Mara, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Alltel Wireless. ''We're delighted to be the only U.S. carrier to launch a phone with Fastap technology, and we know our customers will enjoy the LG AX490's functionality and ease of use on America's largest network.''

''We are proud to be able to introduce our technology to Alltel Wireless customers. The Fastap technology introduces an iconic phone design to the U.S. market, one that vastly improves every aspect of the mobile experience,'' said Mark Connon, CEO, Digit Wireless.

The LG AX490 was designed with the racing enthusiast in mind. Sporting a sleek design based on a race car form, the LG AX490 features Fastap technology as well as special ringtones, games and graphics of Ryan Newman, driver of the Alltel No. 12 Dodge. The LG AX490 also includes Axcess Apps and Axcess Web from Alltel Wireless, allowing users to easily personalize their phones with ringtones, productivity tools and the ability to view Internet content. It also features a multimedia function for viewing and sharing photos quickly and easily right from the phone.

The LG AX490 is available from Alltel for $59.99 after a $40 mail-in rebate. This discounted price is available to new customers on two-year service agreements as well as to existing eligible customers on qualifying rate plans.