Sprint-Nextel to launch first hybrid on November 5?
The concept of CDMA / iDEN hybrid phones has been kicking around pretty much since day one of the Sprint-Nextel merger, and we caught wind of a hybrid handset, the ic502, months ago; the only thing left to do, it seems, is actually launch the darned thing. The wait might be nearly over: a web page over yonder at sprintpcs.com makes mention of a November 5 hybrid launch in "select markets," though said page does not make mention of what those markets are or what phone(s) will be launched. As a refresher, the CDMA / iDEN dual-mode setup will make use of iDEN for PTT and CDMA for traditional calling (though we suspect there will be allowances for falling back from one to the other should only one service be available), taking some of the pressure off the overstressed iDEN network.[Thanks, Seth Z.]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
RmiXDflavoR @ Oct 18th 2006 11:11PM
Some of the markets are Tampa, Orlando ,NYC,LA, Boston,Orange county,Long Island they are more just don't remember. I will post more markets soon. This is OFFICIAL INFO. Any more questions ask
fetchy @ Oct 19th 2006 1:53AM
when are they going to come out with a 87XX blackberry for nextel? or even better a pearl!?!?! i cant wait anymore.
sports fan @ Oct 19th 2006 2:37PM
Finally - although its not in reality, Nov. 5 feels like an eternity away, I can't wait.
person that uses and knows this new ic502 hybrid phone @ Oct 19th 2006 7:52PM
This new phone is already being used by sprint nextel customers. There is 24 markets open. This is a unique new phone that feeds off the CDMA network for cellular and wireless web with the IDEN network for direct Connect only. This gives you 2 types of coverages for the 3 services.The hybrid coverage is on their website. This is the new network for the future that will only improve once the network is tested by customers.
Chris @ Oct 19th 2006 8:25PM
The minute they get a pda/smartphone device that has this technology I will be buying...
Hybroid @ Oct 20th 2006 1:46AM
The current hybrid's are mid-tier "Ruggedized" units. You can check the FCC site for Motorola's approval of the ic402 and ic502 for pictures. CDMA cell and iDen Direct Connect, there is no 'fall-back' in the event you are out of cell coverage. It is possible, in some cases, that your cell will work but not your PTT, and vice versa. The handsets are only 3G, when the ic902 is released it will have the EVDO capabilities. While SIM based, don't plan on using your old SIM. There's a method for pulling contacts but its a chore. "SIM" pops/swaps are a thing of the past....you'll all see when it hits the national markets. =)
foxone @ Oct 22nd 2006 9:55PM
what i wanna know is when is the PPC-6800 gonna come out??? i need a new phone so badly!
PoisonEye @ Oct 27th 2006 7:29PM
I have the ic502 right now (as a test phone). It seems to work well. There are a few features I'd like to see added, but the phone has a nice feel and functions well. It's very light and fairly thin for an iDEN phone (even for a 1/2 iDEN phone). Please everyone buy one to offload the iDEN network!
Quinn @ Nov 6th 2006 6:13PM
Where is the phone? Its not on the web site yet. Any info Thanks.
Quinn
roland woolery @ Nov 6th 2006 8:06PM
when is the hybrid comming out in tx
Mac @ Nov 7th 2006 10:56AM
Will the CDMA cellular side of the network follow the same roaming agreements as Sprint phones? Meaning, whe I go to Montana, and I don't have Sprint or Nextel service, but there is Verizon service, I'll still be able to use the phone?
bob @ Apr 4th 2007 11:15PM
Friend got new one still not getting certain small towns where sprint does fine, not ready yet!
fernando arroyo @ Apr 14th 2007 9:05AM
the nextel hybrid ic 502 buzz is the best phone ive ever had......
collin @ Apr 23rd 2007 9:57PM
when are they coming out with a hybrid bigger screen and bluetooth compatible because if they come out with a better looking screen i would get rid of this one the screen looks cheesy i gave up my i 880 for this phone because i got rid of the nextel all together because of dropped calls it was annoying but the hybrid phone is hot though because while you are on the phone walkie talkie or telephone you still know someone is alerting you or calling with the regular nextel your calls would go straight to nextel so please just come out with a better screen & bluetooth also Thanks Flukes