Helio officially debuts Drift phone with GPS mapping
updated 10:25 am EST, Thu November 9, 2006
Helio Drift Phone Official
As previously anticipated following the discontinuation of its earlier Kickflip, Helio on Thursday launched the Kickflip's official replacement. Known as the Drift, the phone shares many of the specifications of the earlier 2-megapixel, EVDO-capable handset but adds an enhanced GPS unit that forms the core of the design. While most cellphones include basic GPS tracking to help locate owners in an emergency, the Drift ships with a preloaded version of Google Maps that links with the receiver to provide real-time positioning, including driving directions. The Drift also incorporates a Helio-specific feature named Buddy Beacon that can track the locations of a specified list of friends. This can help with socializing, the company says. Models are available in black or white today from Helio for $225 alongside any service agreement.
