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According to a recent study conducted by Nielsen, cell phone users are becoming more active in using their mobile phones for texting rather than calling.  And in AT&&‘s second quarter earnings report, it was found out that the volumes of text messaging done by its subscribers have tripled from the same period in 2007.

Seeing an opportunity, AT&T has just added four text-friendly mobile phones which are all equipped with a full-QWERTY keypad.  These mobile phones are, the Pantech Matrix, the Pantech Slate, the Samsung Propel and AT&T’s own Quickfire mobile handset.  AT&T said that all four mobile phones’ QWERTY keypads allow for easy sending of text messages, MMS for both picture and video, and even instant messages. If you’re keen on getting one or two of these mobile phones, here’s a quick rundown of each of their key features.

Pantech’s Matrix and Slate mobile phones

Both Pantech’s Matrix and Slate mobile handsets boast a 1.3 megapixel camera and both supports Instant Messaging and Mobile Email. The Pantech Matrix is a dual-slider phone with double-keypad design. This familiar design can also be found with the previously released Pantech Duo mobile phone.

To be available in navy blue and black with green designs, the Matrix supports various AT&T services including the Navigator, Video ShareSM calling, and Mobile Music.  Meanwhile, the Pantech Slate, which AT&T claims is “the world’s thinnest device with full QWERTY keypad,” also features a Bluetooth connectivity and will sport a black with royal blue design. The Pantect Matrix and Slate is slated to be released this month for an SRP of $79.99 and $49.99 respectively.  These prices are after a mail-in rebate and a two-year service contract from AT&T.

The Samsung Propel

Next in the lineup of AT&T’s text-friendly mobile phone offering is Samsung’s slider phone dubbed the Samsung Propel.  Like the Pantech mobile phones, the Propel also features a 1.3 megapixel camera, a full QWERTY keypad and supports instant messaging and AT&T’s various services.  This phone is slated for a late October release.  If you’re keen on getting this mobile phone, it will set you back for $79.99 after mail-in rebate and the usual AT&T service contract.  This phone is available in either a blue, green, red, or white with a red design.

AT&T’s quick firing Quickfire phone

Finally, we have AT&T’s slider phone called Quickfire.  This 3G phone lets you choose to read messages in either portrait or landscape mode and gives you quick access to Napster Mobile and eMusic Mobile.  It features a full keypad complemented by a touch screen feature.  Available for $99.99 with two-year service agreement and mail-in rebate, this phone is slated for a November release.  This phone comes in two designs, orange or lime with silver.

Read [AT&T News Room]