Pantech announces the Pantech Matrix Pro

Pantech Matrix Pro

(Credit: Pantech)

Pantech has just announced the Pantech Matrix Pro, a dual-slider smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.1. If you think Pantech Matrix sounds familiar, it's because Pantech released its non-smartphone cousin, the Pantech Matrix, a few months ago as a dual-slider messaging phone. The Matrix Pro is also Pantech's second attempt at a smartphone, after the rather sad Pantech Duo of two years ago. Also note that Pantech is the manufacturer behind the Helio Ocean and the Helio Ocean 2, which have a similar design.

Like all of its dual-slider handsets, the Matrix Pro slides up vertically to reveal a number keypad, and horizontally to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard. The Matrix Pro is a tad flashier than its regular cousin, with a mirror-finish exterior and sleeker design.

Of course like most smartphones, it has support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync for syncing with calendars, e-mail, and contacts, plus you get support for Microsoft Office documents. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera, A-GPS with AT&T Navigator, threaded SMS messaging, a music and video player, video share calling, AT&T Mobile Music, stereo Bluetooth, and a microSD card slot that supports up to 32GB cards. The phone is GPRS/EDGE quad-band and UMTS/HSDPA tri-band.

We're still hunting down specifics on pricing and availability, but it'll likely be soon.

Update: We just heard that the Pantech Matrix Pro will be available February 24 for $179.99 with rebates and a two-year service agreement.

[touchhacker]

well this is the rumored pantech duo 2 i saw last year from th FCC

anyway i will get this phone it looks pretty cool

I wonder if it is able to be upgrade to wibnmo 6.5, I sure hope it is

i will get this the day it comes out

check out my site at touchhacker.com

if you have questions email me at [e-mail]

[Rhadian]

Looks cool and everything, but need more info. can you add mp3s to contacts, original Matrix couldn't. Are the keyboard keys gonna be cramped and hard to use like the other Pantech qwerty phones? I look forward to the full review.