14 DAY TRIAL // Today, mobile phone carrier Verizon Wireless officially confirmed plans to add to its offering the Kyocera Hydro ELITE smartphone starting with August 29, providing users with a great waterproof experience while on the go.
The new device will hit the market with support for the wireless carrier’s 4G LTE network, while also being global-ready, the company announced.
Kyocera Hydro ELITE lands on shelves with a 4.3-inch touchscreen capable of delivering an HD resolution, while featuring an 8-megapixel HD photo snapper on the back, and a 1.3MP front camera for making video calls.
The specifications list of the new device also includes a 2100 mAh battery with wireless charging, along with a microSD memory card slot for expansion purposes.
According to the wireless carrier, the new device can withstand being submerged into up to one meter of water (3.28 ft.) for as long as 30 minutes.
“Why opt for a waterproof phone? Analysts say that nearly 100 million smartphones in the United States have been destroyed by liquids to date, according to TNS Global,” Verizon also notes.
“The list of everyday hazards waiting to wreak havoc on mobile devices is almost endless – rainstorms, sinks, puddles, sprinklers and even the dreaded toilet.”
The new mobile phone also features audio enhancements, courtesy of Kyocera’s award-winning Smart Sonic Receiver technology, as well as a new optional and easy-to-use “Starter Mode” user interface.
The phone comes with a ceramic actuator that replaces the phone’s speaker, and which was designed to transmit sounds as vibrations, so that the phone is audible even in the noisiest environments.
The new Hydro ELITE by Kyocera is set to become available for purchase on Verizon’s website starting with August 29, featuring a price tag of $99.99 (€75) with the signing of a two-year contract agreement and after a $50 mail-in rebate.
“Built to survive the rigors of everyday life, Hydro ELITE is launching with a little help from extreme-survivalist Bear Grylls – star of television’s hit new series ‘Get Out Alive’ and the father of three active boys,” Verizon also said.