T-Mobile may finally have launched their 3G network, but they're still lagging in the high-tech handset department. But everyone's favorite #4 carrier (okay, they're the only #4 carrier) definitely tries as hard as they can to make up for their relative lack of tech by providing as much value as they possibly can. Point in case: Today's announcements of two new low-end HotSpot@Home phones and pro-rated Early Termination Fees.
The new phones are fairly humdrum save for their support of HotSpot@Home UMA calling, which boosts call quality and saves you money by routing your calls over WiFi when you're in range of an open network. I most recently tried the service on the RIM BlackBerry Pearl and the voice quality was excellent; here's hoping these new handsets, the Nokia 6301 and Samsung t339, will perform as well.
Nokia's 6301 is the higher-end of the two, packing a 2MP camera, stereo Bluetooth, and wireless contact backup into a candbar form factor. A 1GB microSD card is included with the 6301, which features a music player and video capture. The Samsung t339 is a flip phone with a 1.3MP camera. Both phones are available today from T-Mobile.
As for the pro-rated ETFs, here's the scoop straight from T-Mo's press release:
"Beginning on June 28, 2008, the ETF for customers who choose a one-year or two-year service agreement with T-Mobile will decline during the course of their contract. The ETF decreases from $200 to $100 if customers terminate service with 91 to 180 days remaining on their agreement; and decreases again to $50 with fewer than 91 days remaining. If customers terminate in the last 30 days of their term, the ETF is $50 or their standard monthly charge, whichever is less."
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