The Palm Pre is due to launch on the 6th of June, and it will cost you $200 with a two-year contract with Sprint. This highly anticipated smartphone has generated a lot of buzz due to its sleek design and innovative features.
Buying the Palm Pre Without a Contract
If you don’t want to sign up for a 2-year contract, you will be able to get the Palm Pre without a contract for $549.99. However, there is just one problem: the phone will still be locked to Sprint, so you won’t be able to use it with another network. This limitation might be a significant drawback for some users, especially those who prefer the flexibility of switching carriers.
This might be a good solution for users who are already with Sprint but don’t want to commit to a new contract or who are locked into an existing one. However, it seems expensive for a phone that is locked to a particular network. The high upfront cost might deter some potential buyers, especially when compared to other unlocked smartphones available in the market.
Features and Specifications
The Palm Pre boasts a range of impressive features that make it stand out in the crowded smartphone market. It comes with a 3.1-inch multi-touch screen with a resolution of 320×480 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals. The device is powered by a 600 MHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks.
One of the standout features of the Palm Pre is its webOS operating system, which offers a unique and intuitive user experience. The webOS allows for seamless multitasking, enabling users to run multiple applications simultaneously without any lag. Additionally, the device includes a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, making it easier for users to type messages and emails quickly.
The Palm Pre also comes equipped with a 3-megapixel camera with LED flash, allowing users to capture high-quality photos even in low-light conditions. The phone includes 8GB of internal storage, providing ample space for apps, photos, and music. However, it does not support expandable storage, which might be a limitation for some users.
Comparing the Palm Pre to Other Smartphones
When comparing the Palm Pre to other smartphones available at the time, it holds its own in several areas. For instance, its webOS operating system offers a unique alternative to the iOS and Android platforms, providing a fresh and innovative user experience. The slide-out QWERTY keyboard is another feature that sets it apart, catering to users who prefer physical keyboards over virtual ones.
However, the Palm Pre faces stiff competition from other flagship devices such as the iPhone 3GS and the HTC Hero. Both of these smartphones offer a range of advanced features and have established user bases. The iPhone 3GS, for example, boasts a robust app ecosystem and seamless integration with other Apple products. On the other hand, the HTC Hero offers a customizable Android experience with access to a wide range of apps and services.
The Palm Pre is a compelling option for users looking for a smartphone with a unique operating system and a physical keyboard. Its range of features and specifications make it a strong contender in the market. However, the high upfront cost for the unlocked version and its exclusivity to Sprint might be significant drawbacks for some users. Potential buyers should weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.
via Gadget Venue
Update 13th August 2009
Palm Pre UK Release Date – October 30th
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