Huawei launches 3G handsets at CommunicAsia
The China-based telecommunications solutions provider unveils new cell phones, one of which doubles effortlessly as an HSDPA modem.
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| Dancers posing with the three new Huawei handsets. |
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China-based Huawei provides equipment to other telecommunications companies, including huge backend stuff like network solutions all the way to tiny modems used by customers of telecom operators. One device from Huawei that many may be familiar with is the Vodafone Mobile Connect Modem employed by M1 in Singapore to get its users online through the HSDPA network. Here at CommunicAsia in Singapore, the company has launched three new 3G handsets, the U550, U121 and U120.
The only one of the lot to support HSDPA is the U550. This flip phone has touch-sensitive buttons on its front for music playback as well as a secondary display for vital information. One of its coolest features is its ability to act as a modem for PCs. Though most mobile phones are able to do that, this one works the moment it is plugged into a computer--no software installation required. This is similar to the USB modem used by M1's broadband customers mentioned earlier.
The other two models are of the candy-bar variety. Both the U120 and U121 are music-oriented, as evidenced by the 3.5mm audio jacks, so you can plug in a standard set of headphones. The U121 has a steel finish as well as an FM radio built in, features which are absent on the lower-end U120 model.
Because Huawei's business focuses on customization, these handsets will be available only through their business customers, the telecom operators. The company did reveal that it is undergoing talks with operators in the region, and that the entry-level handsets may cost under US$100.
Huawei's latest handsets
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In a nutshell |
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Cool factor: Clamshell music phone that's also an HSDPA modem
Notable features:
Triband GSM with 3G/HSDPA
2-megapixel camera
2-inch 262K-color display
Bluetooth connectivity with A2DP
64MB memory and microSD expansion slot
USB 2.0 Full-speed plug-and-play modem
98 x 49.5 x 17.5mm; 105g
Availability: TBC
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Cool factor: Music phone with a stainless steel finish
Notable features:
Triband GSM with 3G
1.3-megapixel camera
1.8-inch 262K-color display
Bluetooth connectivity with HSDPA
microSD expansion slot
3.5mm audio jack and FM radio
103 x 45 x 14.5mm; 90g
Availability: TBC
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Cool factor: Entry-level 3G cell phone with MP3 capabilities
Notable features:
Triband GSM with 3G
1.3-megapixel camera
1.8-inch 262K-color display
microSD expansion slot
Onboard music player
105 x 45.5 x 15.5mm; 90g
Availability: TBC
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