New Handsets, Mobile Phone Network Improvements Trotted OutNew Handsets, Mobile Phone Network Improvements Trotted Out

Several new mobile handsets and improvements to mobile phone networks were announced Tuesday.

Nokia's E62 introduced a thin handset sporting a QWERTY keyboard. Offered for use with Cingular Wireless service, the E62 carries a $149.99 price tag.

Research In Motion rolled the 8703e Blackberry, which has several advanced features including enterprise applications like Microsoft Exchange and IBM Lotus Domino. The $350 handset operates with Verizon Wireless' high speed BroadbandAccess network, which enables users to download documents at speeds averaging 400 to 700 kbps.

At the same time, Verizon Wireless and Motorola said they will upgrade Verizon's CDMA 1x sites to EV-DO Rev. A. The latter technology is even faster and more robust than Verizon's existing network. EV-DO is capable of supporting simultaneous video, voice and data applications.

Netgear Inc. said that its Skype Phone is being shipped to pre-order Skype users. The phone is pre-loaded with Skype software. It is available in the U.S. and Canada for $249.99. The Model SPH101 does not operate over cell phone networks.

Sanyo unveiled its SCP-8400, which features a 1.3-megapixel camera, a music player and the ability to operate on Sprint's high-speed Power Vision Network. The handset is priced between $99.99 and $279.99 depending on rebates and subscriber agreements. Sanyo said Sprint Power Vision features including live TV, Web browsing, and streaming music and video can be accessed with the phone.

Motorola and Cingular Wireless unveiled the latest music phone in Motorola's RAZR series. The MOTORAZR v3i carries a suggested $250 price. It operates with iTunes.