14 DAY TRIAL // Wireless carrier Sprint recently announced the upcoming launch of a new 4G-capable handset, the Samsung Epic 4G. Following the recent release of HTC EVO 4G, the forthcoming mobile phone should boast a QWERTY keyboard when available, while being included in Samsung's Galaxy S series of Android-based devices (the handset was previously spotted around the Internet as the Galaxy S Pro).
“Sprint takes another leap forward today, announcing its second 4G-capable smartphone,” said Steve Elfman, president of Network Operations and Wholesale. “Samsung Epic 4G joins a portfolio of powerful devices offering an unprecedented simplicity and value to our customers as the only national carrier with a 4G network and devices and applications that can leverage the increased data speeds to provide a high-def entertainment and business experience in the palm of your hand.”
According to Sprint, the new device is meant to offer an enhanced user experience to its customers. The specifications list of this phone includes a 4-inch Super AMOLED touchscreen display, complemented by the aforementioned QWERTY keyboard, support for 4G services, and access to the Samsung Media Hub, offering users the possibility to purchase or rent movies and TV, in addition to the AllShare service, which enables users to share music, pictures and HD video to DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) certified devices at home.
The new Samsung Epic 4G runs under Google's Android 2.1 operating system. Its specs also include a 1GHz Cortex A8 Hummingbird Application Processor, 5-megapixel photo snapper with auto focus, Power LED flash and video recording, a front facing VGA camera for video chat, Mobile Hotspot capability (can share 4G connection to up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices), Wi-Fi b/g/n connectivity, and a 1500 mAh battery, among other.
“Samsung Epic 4G is a powerful member of our Galaxy S smartphone portfolio which offers premium screen, speed and content features,” said Omar Khan, chief strategy officer for Samsung Mobile. “The Epic 4G ups the ante with a front-facing camera for video conferencing, a full QWERTY keyboard and lightning-fast 4G speeds.”
The upcoming Samsung Epic 4G boasts support for push email, along with integrated calendar, including services, Google and Yahoo. Moreover, it can prove a great option for business users through the included support for Exchange ActiveSync for corporate email, along with device management and security features and with full support for Google Mobile Services. Specific availability and pricing of the new 4G handset should be announced within the following months. Users can register their interest in the device on Sprint's website here.