Alltel launches mobile TV, introduces CDMA Razr

[ComicalMoodyDan]

Alltel launches mobile TV, introduces CDMA Razr
Nov 17, 2005

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.-Alltel Corp. said it will offer MobiTV Inc.'s video service running on the Motorola Inc. Razr V3c beginning next week.

The CDMA2000 1x EV-DO version of the popular handset will be available at the carrier's retail locations beginning Monday for $200 with a two-year service agreement. Alltel initially will offer 25 channels of MobiTV service for $10 a month, and will make the offering available on additional handsets, including the Motorola V710 and Nokia Corp. 6255i, beginning next month.

The new Razr features a 1.3-megapixel camera with 8x digital zoom, video capture and playback and MP3 capabilities. It also features Bluetooth and BREW 3.1 technologies.

"The Motorola Razr with its sleek design and next-generation technology offers customers an unparalleled wireless experience, including live TV that customers can watch while on the go," said Wade McGill, Alltel's vice president of wireless product management.

The announcement is notable as Alltel is the first CDMA carrier in the United States to announce an official launch date for the Razr V3c. Many had expected Verizon Wireless to sell the device first.

http://www.rcrnews.com/news.cms?newsId=24877

[Critic]

I'm quite surprised that VZW let alltel get the jump on them where the RAZR is concerned - unless they figured that it was such a badly-kept secret, the demand was already as high as it could be. Or maybe it's back in testing. I dunno.

I AM curious to know what UI the alltel version is running - we know the VZW version runs VZW's UI, but (assuming the alltel version retains the same keypad) with no MENU button, the alltel version would have to be running a version of Moto's updated UI, no?

[MOTOhooligan]

Originally Posted by Critic

...the alltel version would have to be running a version of Moto's updated UI, no?

I assume so but since I haven't gotten my grubby hands on one yet (nor will I, at least for a few months, probably) I don't know. I'm as curious as you, Critic.

[Critic]

I'm also curious to know if the alltel RAZR will carry the same ESN series as VZW's, allowing someone to activate an alltel RAZR on VZW via the online ESN changer...? I guess only time will tell.