Samsung preps touchscreen WiMAX smartphone
updated 04:10 pm EDT, Thu October 15, 2009
KT to bring WiBro-compatible Samsung handset
Korean wireless provider KT is planning on releasing a smartphone that supports the country's WiBro mobile broadband network, which is the equivalent of WiMAX in Korea. The smartphone will be made by Samsung and go by the SPH-M8400 model name. Other than WiBro, it will also have WCDMA (3G) network support and a Wi-Fi connection, which earns it the 3W designation from KT. The photo of the M8400 also reveals it will run on a Windows Mobile operating system.
While the M8400 is KT's first WiBro device, competitor SK Telecom has been offering the SCH-M8300, also from Samsung, since May. The earlier handset does not have a Wi-Fi connection. KT offers a public Wi-Fi service, Nespot, which should help users access data in more places. The M8400 will also allow VoIP calls to save on airtime charges.
Alongside the handset, KT has plans to lower its data rates and introduce both a mobile app marketplace and a four-device service that covers cellphones, home Internet, connected TVs, and a VoIP terminal.
Pricing or a detailed release date for the M8400 handset through KT is unknown at this time. [via TelecomsKorea]
