Samsung Prepping Two Smartphones Running Android 2.0

Android 1.5 is still a few days away from being widely distributed but talk of the next major version has already started. According to an unconfirmed report, two smartphones scheduled for release this fall will run Android 2.0.

Samsung is rumored to be prepping two models running the next version of Google's operating system. The Spica will allegedly be similar to the already announced Samsung I7500 but scaled back a bit, while the device code-named Bigfoot will add a sliding keyboard.
These two models will reportedly have a great deal in common, including their 3-inch QVGA touchscreens, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G, 3 MPx cameras, and microSD card slots. The Bigfoot will be a bit thicker, as its keyboard will take up some room.

They are expected to be released by T-Mobile this fall, and almost certainly other carriers as well.

What's New in Android 2.0?
The release of the next version of Google's OS isn't going to happen for about 6 months, so few details are available.

About the only new feature it will definitely have, according to the official roadmap of Android development, is support for additional screen resolutions: WVGA and QVGA. Only HVGA displays are supported by Android 1.5, while both of Samsung's upcoming models will reportedly have QVGA ones.

The code-name for this new version is also known: donut. A theme is emerging, as the code-name for the open-source project that eventually became Android 1.5 is cupcake.

Source: mobile-review and Google

Sidekick LX 2009

T-Mobile USA has just introduced a new version of the Sidekick LX that offers high-end features, like mobile broadband service and a very high-resolution screen.

This smartphone has a 3.2-inch, WVGA+ (854 by 480 pixel) display and support T-Mobile's 3G (HSDPA) service.

In addition, it offers a GPS receiver, with turn-by-turn directions and maps supplied by Microsoft Live. Its GPS software will also allow users to quickly check real-time traffic, gas prices, or movie showtimes

And while the Sidekicks have always been aimed at consumers, T-Mobile plans to release Exchange ActiveSync support so users can access their corporate email on this device.

More about the Sidekick LX 2009
This device has the same general design as its predecessors, with a swiveling screen and QWERTY keyboard, but with the thinnest casing yet.

It allows users to view YouTube videos in the web browser, and comes with a suite of social-networking software, including apps for Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.

This model also sports a 3.2 MPx camera with auto-focus that supports video recording. Users are able to share their videos via e-mail or upload them to social networking sites.

Other consumer-friendly features include IM software, with clients for AOL Instant Messenger, Windows Live, and Yahoo! Messenger.

The latest Sidekick LX has a microSD card slot, and comes bundled with a 128 MB card. It also has Stereo Bluetooth.

Overall, this device is 5.2 inches by 2.4 inches by 0.6 inches, and 5.8 ounces.

Pricing and Availability
The Sidekick LX is available now at select T-Mobile retail stores and online at t-mobile.com.

This smartphone sells for $200 with a two-year agreement and $50 mail-in rebate.

Source: T-Mobile USA