While a lot of focus is put on high-end smartphones, quick messaging devices similar to the LG ENV3 are still wildly popular.  Today Verizon announced the Pantech Jest, a new quick messaging device for its network.  The Jest has a 2.6-inch display, optical d-pad, 2 megapixel camera with video capture, built-in social apps like Facebook and Twitter, and, of course, a full QWERTY keyboard of the sliding variety.  You can snag the Jest on Verizon's site today for the low, low price of free.  If you prefer a more hands-on buying experience, the device will be available in Verizon stores on July 5th for $69.99 with a two-year contract and after a $50 mail-in rebate.  Check out the full press release below.

As I said before, these types of quick messaging devices are still insanely popular, even in the midst of all of these high-end smartphones that constantly one-up each other.  Their ease of use and low prices are very attractive to customers who don't need full-on smartphones.  As kids are getting cell phones at younger and younger ages, devices like these also make a good choice for a first time cell phone owner.  Are any of you planning on picking up a Jest for yourself or someone else?

VERIZON WIRELESS AND PANTECH INTRODUCE THE PANTECH JEST™

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. – Sizzle up your summer with the latest slider phone from Verizon Wireless and Pantech. Today, the companies announced the Pantech Jest™, a new feature phone by Personal Communications Devices, LLC, is available online today. Ideal for staying connected in style, this sassy slider allows customers to manage ringtones, wallpapers and games from personal networks.

Key features:

· 2.6" 262K color TFT display

· Self Icon personalization to create icons and banners and display an electronic sign on your phone display

· Optical directional key with swipe motion technology

· Built-in 2.0-megapixel camera takes high-quality pictures and records video

· Text, picture, video and voice messaging

· Mobile IM and Chat for quick text conversations

Lifestyle features:

· Social Beat pre-loaded for direct connections to Facebook®, MySpace® and Twitter™

· Media Center – Download ringtones, wallpapers and games from your network to your phone

· VZ Navigator® for detailed maps in real time with audible turn-by-turn directions to millions of points of interest in the United States

· V CAST Music with Rhapsody® (subscription and PC downloads) digital music service. Download soundtracks and albums or sync playlists with a PC

· Mobile Web browsing capabilities for news, sports, weather and e-mail, providing access to up-to-date information when users subscribe to Internet service

· Stereo Bluetooth® technology for wireless connections between electronic devices; connects to Bluetooth-enabled headsets and hands-free systems

Pricing and availability:

· The Jest is available online at www.verizonwireless.com today for free through a special online promotion. It will be in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores beginning July 5 for $69.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. Customers will receive the rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted.

· For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.