U.S. Cellular takes new Android phones into battle
Chicago-based U.S. Cellular is taking aim against Verizon Wireless and other providers as it introduces more Android-based smartphones to its lineup.
This week, U.S. Cellular debuted HTC's Desire, the second of five such phones to be launched this year.
The Samsung Acclaim arrived in its stores last month and the provider will launch three other Android phones, another from Samsung and two from LG, later this year, said U.S. Cellular spokeswoman Claire Prendergast.
"One of the most attractive features of all these phones is their access to thousands of applications that allow customers to do more with their phones," said Prendergast. "The HTC Desire runs on the Android-operating system and has access to more than 80,000 apps on the Android Market."
The HTC Androids have been strong contenders against Schaumburg-based Motorola's Droid and Apple's iPhone portfolios, and all fast-selling phones.
The Desire is also preloaded with U.S. Cellular applications, such as City ID, Tone Room Deluxe and Your Navigator Deluxe, as well as the provider's Overage Protection, Free Incoming Calls and Battery Swap programs.
"We believe the HTC Desire will be a very attractive option for those looking to take their wireless experience to the next level," she said.
The Desire has a fast Web browser on a 3G network. Its slim design has a 3.7-inch touch-screen that shows streaming video and graphics in vivid detail. The phone also delivers a 5 megapixel, autofocus camera with flash and integrated GPS. Its Wi-Fi capabilities allow users to connect to the Internet via wireless hot spots at home or on the road. Customers can upload pictures and videos to a variety of social networking and sharing sites including Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube.
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