Sprint songs on the cheap

Samsung UpStage

(Credit: Samsung)

In addition to unveiling its new UpStage phone Sprint announced today that it would lower over-the-air downloads from the Sprint Music Store from $2.50 per track to just $0.99. The new price will apply to all songs from the store and will go into effect in early April, the same time the UpStage formally hits stores (Sprint did not announce an official day). And yes, that wireless download includes a simultaneous download to your PC. The price drop is more than welcome, and we think it's no coincidence that it puts the carrier's music store on the same pricing scale as Apple's iTunes. Though Sprint hasn't said so specifically, it's obvious the carrier is trying to create a more affordable alternative to the upcoming iPhone. And though we doubt most consumers would equate the two devices, the UpStage's wireless music downloads (like all Sprint music phones) wins it some serious points.