Verizon Wireless launches the rugged G'zOne Type-S

Verizon Wireless G'zOne Type-S

(Credit: Verizon Wireless)

Verizon Wireless has just announced that it will be the exclusive provider of the Casio G'zOne Type-S rugged cell phone, starting tomorrow. A successor to the Type-V handset it debuted a year ago, the Type-S is much smaller and has a more streamlined designed, but it was still made with the same military-grade specifications. According to Verizon and Casio, it is able to withstand extreme humidity, three feet of water for up to 30 minutes, and drops from about five feet; it can also resist dust as fine as silica flour. It certainly looks rugged, too, with its sturdy build and shock-absorbent rubber packaging. As a Verizon phone, it also comes with several Verizon applications, like the Verizon's Get It Now mobile Web browser, instant messaging, and support for VZ Navigator, Verizon's location-based service. A definite upgrade from the Type-V is the inclusion of Bluetooth support, though the move from a 2.0-megapixel to a VGA camera is small yet important downgrade. It'll be available nationwide starting tomorrow for about $149.99 after a $50 rebate and a two-year service agreement. We have the phone in our hands right now, and we'll give you a full review of this rugged phone shortly. Stay tuned!