Verizon has launched the HTC SMT5800. The device has previously been released on Qwest, Verizon is the first national carrier to release the device.
The SMT5800 combines Windows Mobile 6 Standard with a slide-out mini keyboard, and an EV-DO Rev A-ready phone. The device carries a similar feature set to the XV6800, device form-factor differences aside. Both have Bluetooth 2.0, and both are the first EV-DO Rev-A ready phones in the United States. However, the SMT5800 lacks Wi-Fi. The SMT5800 will be sold under the Verizon Wireless brand, as opposed to the HTC brand, and is shipped from UTStarcom.
The SMT5800 is available from Verizon online for $199.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate, with new two-year agreement.
Does the buying public really want the Verizon Wireless brand especially with the amount of publicity HTC is getting these days? What’s the point still?