Motorola Q Debuts on Verizon
Motorola's long-awaited competitor to the BlackBerry and Palm Treo is slated to go on sale next week through U.S. mobile carrier Verizon. The "Q" is powered by Windows Mobile 5.0 and offers a full QWERTY keyboard in a slim form factor that follows the popular RAZR design.
The Q includes Outlook Mobile with support for up to eight e-mail accounts and Exchange Server 2003 synchronization, along with integrated Bluetooth, audio and video playback, and thumbwheel navigation. The phone also takes advantage of Verizon's high-speed EV-DO network.
"On Verizon Wireless’ broadband EV-DO network, the Moto Q brings together all of the converged solutions you need to work, stay in touch or have fun," said Motorola CEO Ed Zander. "With the best voice, data and design technology in one ultra-thin, intelligent, hard-working device, the Moto Q allows you to be productive and entertained wherever you go."
Verizon will begin selling the Q on its Web site starting May 31, and the new device will reach Verizon stores early next month. With a qualifying voice and data plan and two-year agreement, the Q will cost $199.99 after a $100 instant credit.
“The Moto Q is amazing,” said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. “It blends stylish design and fast network speeds with Microsoft’s powerful Windows Mobile software, empowering people to be mobile without concessions.”
Motorola did not say when it would begin shipping the Q for other wireless carriers.