T-Mobile ships Sidekick device


T-Mobile USA has announced the commercial availability of its Sidekick device, the first to use Danger’s Hiptop platform. Hiptop is a mobile device solution which includes a handheld reference specification and a set of hosted entertainment services.

The Sidekick will cost USD 199 and be available through major retailers and direct from T-Mobile. It uses T-Mobile’s GPRS network and provides unlimited data usage for USD 39.99 per month.

“The T-Mobile Sidekick is all about fun and getting more from life with spontaneous communication,” said Cole Brodman, senior vice president of product development for T-Mobile USA. “Whether it’s sending mobile snapshots, playing games or staying connected through instant messaging, the T-Mobile Sidekick is the ultimate device for the internet generation looking for easy to use, affordable fun in a single cool device.”

Insight

T-Mobile’s pricing is extremely competitive. Users will be able to purchase an advanced mobile data device for the price of a mid-range handset. The USD 39.99 price plan, which includes unlimited data, 200 ‘anytime’ minutes and 1000 off-peak minutes, will be among the most attractive in the US market.

Danger’s Hiptop solution has the potential to replicate the enterprise success of the RIM Blackberry in the consumer market. If the fading aversion to GSM can finally be overcome, Sidekick should win T-Mobile some valuable new GPRS contract additions. A well-timed replacement, including an integrate digital camera and colour screen, could spark mass market adoption of wireless data services.


Originally published by PMN Mobile Industry Intelligence, the subscription-based analysis and insight platform founded by Marek Pawlowski.
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