T-Mobile's US branch today upgraded its entry-level phones through the Samsung t229. This replacement for the t219 adds a VGA camera as well as an "audio postcard" feature that lets users tie a recorded sound clip to a photo to document a vacation without writing a message. The phone otherwise offers basic data access that involves instant messaging; MyFaves support for unlimited calling to five contacts is also built-in.

Samsung's phone comes in a unique red-and-champagne color scheme and is priced slightly above the most basic free phones at $30 with a two-year contract; buyers should have access to the phone online and in retail shops later today.