Alltel intros Samsung U520 with GPS, music
updated 09:55 am EST, Thu December 7, 2006
Samsung U520 at Alltel
Alltel on Thursday began offering the Samsung U520, a flip-phone that marks the debut of two features new to the company's lineup. The U520 is the first to support the company's Axcess Mobile Guide, a GPS-based direction service: owners can find and plan routes to destinations, including receiving voice directions during the trip. Equally new is support for the A2DP Bluetooth audio profile. While already gaining popularity with other carriers, the profile lets Alltel subscribers pair the Samsung phone with Bluetooth stereo devices such as wireless headphones or speakers.
Other components of the U520 reflect the phone's mid-range audience, according to Alltel. A 1.3-megapixel camera records photos and videos; music playback is supported for MP3 files, and EVDO broadband is optional. The carrier starts pricing at $270 for the phone by itself but discounts the phone at $100 when bought with a two-year contract and rebate. The Axcess Mobile Guide is available for $10 per month or $3 for a one-day pass.
