Sprint Nabs Touch Pro 2Sprint Nabs Touch Pro 2

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HTC Touch Pro 2

Mobile professionals have another strong option for keeping connected on the go, as Sprint Nextel has picked up the HTC Touch Pro 2.

Sprint's version won't differ too much from the T-Mobile model, and it will include a large resistive touch screen and a slide-out five-row QWERTY keyboard. The handset will be powered by Windows Mobile 6.1, and it will be able to receive push corporate and private e-mail, as well as calendar and contact information.

HTC has layered its TouchFLO 3-D user interface on top of Windows Mobile, and this provides a more finger-friendly experience. The device also has a high-quality speakerphone that has dual microphones and noise filters.

"Unlike devices that focus solely on specifications, HTC Touch Pro 2 was designed with the philosophy that people should be at the center of the communications experience," said Jason Mackenzie, VP of HTC America, in a statement. "So, instead of having to search through multiple applications to find a specific message, HTC Touch Pro 2 intuitively organizes all communications, whether voice, text, or e-mail, under a single contact card."

The Touch Pro 2 will come with Wi-Fi and it has 3G capabilities thanks to Sprint's EV-DO Rev. A network. The smartphone also has Bluetooth, as well as a GPS chip that can be combined with mobile data for assisted-GPS for directions and location-based searches.

The 3.6-inch screen can be tilted up for a better viewing experience, and the handset is a capable multimedia device. Along with the standard audio and video capabilities of Windows Mobile, Sprint has loaded specific apps for its music store, video service, and access to streaming National Football League content. Unlike the T-Mobile version, Sprint's Touch Pro 2 has a standard headphone jack.

Sprint users will be able to pick up the Touch Pro 2 beginning Sept. 8, and the handset will cost about $350 after rebates and with a new two-year contract.

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