Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile

ZTE, the largest telecom equipment manufacturer in China, has officially entered the competitive U.S. mobile phone industry with an entry-level mobile handset, ZTE C88. Its subsidiary ZTE USA Inc. will carry that flip phone in partnership with MetroPCS. Just like any Chinese company entering the market, it is positioned as a “cost effective option for consumers who want a high quality, full featured handset at an affordable price point.”

The cost of ZTE C88 ranges from $129 to $149, depending on the promotions being offered. Unfortunately, it is not available nationwide as MetroPCS only operates in Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Sarasota, Orlando, LA, San Francisco, Tampa, Detroit, and Sacramento.

You might notice the C88 is not a ground-breaking device. It’s not even that appealing. However, it is a mistake to underestimate the capability of ZTE. that

is just a usual practice of many companies breaking universal waters – launch its basic products first to pop quiz the waters. whether successful, it will bombard the market with more exciting products.

Basic features include:

• 2-inch color screen
• Operates at PCS and Cellular bands (1900 and 850 MHz)
• Internet (WAP) Browsing
• Bluetooth headset support
• Camera
• Text messaging on a large, easy-to-use keypad
• MMS/picture messaging
• 60 MB of internal memory
• Capability to store 500 contacts
• Embedded applications - mail @metro, metro411, mobile IM
• Preloaded (Sodoku) and downloadable games, ringtones and Wallpapers.

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Full Story » | Written by Leo Blanco for Gadgetell. | Comment on that commentary »

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Orginal post by Leo Blanco