UTStarcom Reveals PPC6800

[Darius Wey]

<img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/wey-20060914-ppc6800.jpg" /><br /><br />We scored a couple of juicy shots from a pal currently attending CTIA. UTStarcom didn't hesitate one bit in showing off two upcoming devices (the second coming shortly in a separate post) on a large purple banner for all to see. Of course, what good is it if one doesn't know the specs? The folks at UTStarcom chose to stay tight-lipped over just what was powering the PPC6800. What we do know is that it features a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, loses the external antenna, runs Windows Mobile 5.0, and sparkles if held at the right angle. Yes, vague details - we know. But for all you PPC6700 users, know that your upgrade is coming! ;)

[MarcTGFG]

wouldnt that be the first Phone edition device where the QWERTY keyboard slides out to the right side?

[Paragon]

Comparing the current 6700 to devices now being released, it still stands up pretty well, so I'm having a hard time guessing what they may have upgraded on this device. More memory? Doubtful since none of the GSM devices have increased memory. Faster processor? Possibly, but again not many newly announced devices are any faster. GPS? Maybe, but being a CDMA device I doubt the CDMA carriers are going to want something they can't make money with. I would think they would make better use of AGPS before we see them incude full functioning GPS. EVDO rev A? Maybe, but I don't think many carriers are ready for it yet, are they? Again being a CDMA device I think it is very doubtful we'll see anything like an FM tuner or that sort of thing, since there is nothing to capitalize on.

I guess it comes down to exterior design. It does look better than the current 6700. If they make it substantially thinner, then I could quite easily spend the money on it, otherwise I'm still very happy with my 6700.

Dave

[jaydon34]

Just for the fact the antenna is gone and its faster to me that = upgrade from the 6700.


BTW: I'm a lurker

[threedaysdwn]

I'm starting to tire of the bulk and bland looks of my 6700.

If this thing is noticeably thinner, without the antenna, and adds some other decent value (VGA? G wireless? Better battery life?) it'll be a no-brainer.

Unless the Libra manages to win me over. But since it's probably a Smartphone and not a PPC that'll be tough.

[ctmagnus]

The lack of the antenna nub alone makes this a viable upgrade, imo. I detest antenna nubs. :bad-words:

[minimage]

If it means a slightly larger keyboard, since the picture shows a keyboard like the 8125's, that will be nice. However, I like my antenna nub. I suppose the lack will mean 6800 users will have to have a collapsible stylus similar to the one the 8125 users get. No thanks.

Of course, since I won't be able to buy a phone until June of 2008, I need to feel this way.

I wonder if the reversed keyboard colors mean both letters and numbers/symbols will be visible in the dark.

[bmac]

wouldnt that be the first Phone edition device where the QWERTY keyboard slides out to the right side?

No - the XV6700 and the HTC Wizard have this feature (maybe others).