Verizon brings you the UTStarcom Blitz
(Credit:
Verizon Wireless)
Texters rejoice, for Verizon has just introduced the Blitz, a phone made primarily for messaging.
Manufactured by UTStarcom, the Blitz has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard; a dedicated MyMessaging key that will lead you directly to the messaging menu; a 1.3-megapixel camera; a speakerphone; a music player; and even stereo Bluetooth. Even though you can use V Cast Music with Rhapsody for PC downloads and subscriptions, do note that the Blitz does not support over-the-air music downloads, probably because it doesn't have EV-DO support.
The Blitz is definitely no smartphone, but for text messaging fanatics who just want a phone with a QWERTY keyboard, this will do just fine. The Blitz is currently available for $69.99 after a $50 discount and a two-year service agreement.
Nicole Lee is an associate editor for CNET, covering cell phones, Bluetooth headsets, and all things mobile. She's also pretty geeky--she likes World of Warcraft, comic books, and shiny gadgets. E-mail Nicole. 
