Sprint to update, add many Android phones
updated 09:55 am EDT, Fri October 30, 2009
Sprint talks about future smartphones, changes
A Sprint executive revealed the carrier's plans to release software updates for its smartphones and other news via a web chat on Thursday. David Owens revealed the Android-powered HTC Hero and Samsung Moment will get an update to the OS, though hasn't specified whether it will be version 1.6 or 2.0. Android phones are expected to also go down in price thanks to higher volumes, and Sprint is considering adding an Android handset with an integrated MiFi-style router.
In other Android news at Sprint, devices with both CDMA and GSM network support are being considered for 2010. Sprint will also bring many more HTC handsets to market in 2010, most running Android, as well as BlackBerry phones.
The currently offered BlackBerry Tour will also benefit from newfound Wi-Fi functionality sometime soon, and more BlackBerries will be added. The new model is known through leaks to be the Essex and will have both Wi-Fi as well as a trackpad.
Windows Mobile 6.5 updates are being tested for the HTC Touch Pro2 and other Windows phones and are planned for release early in 2010. Windows Mobile 7 is desired at Sprint, but Microsoft is said to be the anchor in this case.
WiMAX-ready handsets are also expected to arrive at Sprint in 2010. However, Owens revealed the carrier won't allow tethering for smartphones on Everything plans, which right now includes virtually all of its devices. [via Gearlog]
