Moto RIZR Z6tv launches with Verizon mobile TV

Verizon today unveiled the Motorola RIZR Z6tv, its adaptation of the ROKR Z6 that adds support for the carrier's MediaFLO-based V CAST TV live digital broadcast TV service. The new slider picks up the full range of stations from CBS, NBC, and others and also taps some of Verizon's other specialized Internet features, such as VZ Navigator for assisted GPS routing and the V CAST Music direct-download music store. Because its digital TV operates on a different frequency, these Internet services can run in the background without affecting show reception, according to the provider.

Outside of its TV ability, the RIZR Z6tv is close to its ROKR origins with a dedicated media key and MP3/WMA playback, and Bluetooth with stereo audio support. Both 50MB of internal memory and a microSD card slot provide storage for music or shots from the 2-megapixel. The company notes that the RIZR version uses a 2.5mm miniature headphone jack rather than the full-size 3.5mm jack of the ROKR, however. Verizon plans to ship the Z6tv on October 5th for $180 after factoring in a two-year contract and a $50 rebate. Gaining access to digital TV requires a V CAST TV plan with prices ranging between $13 and $25 per month depending on the number of channels.