ZTE enters the US mobile phone market with the C88

Posted February 9, 2008 at 02:29 PM by Leo Blanco

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile

ZTE, the largest telecom equipment manufacturer in China, has officially entered the competitive U.S. mobile phone industry with an entry-level mobile handset, ZTE C88. Its subsidiary ZTE USA Inc. will carry this flip phone in partnership with MetroPCS. Just like any Chinese company entering the market, it is positioned as a “cost effective option for consumers who want a high quality, full featured handset at an affordable price point.”

The cost of ZTE C88 ranges from $129 to $149, depending on the promotions being offered. Unfortunately, it is not available nationwide as MetroPCS only operates in Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Sarasota, Orlando, LA, San Francisco, Tampa, Detroit, and Sacramento.

You might notice the C88 is not a ground-breaking device. It’s not even that attractive. However, it is a mistake to underestimate the capability of ZTE. This is just a usual practice of many companies breaking international waters – launch its basic products first to test the waters. If successful, it will bombard the market with more exciting products.

Basic features include: 2-inch color screen Operates at PCS and Cellular bands (1900 and 850 MHz) Internet (WAP) Browsing Bluetooth headset support Camera Text messaging on a large, easy-to-use keypad MMS/picture messaging 60 MB of internal memory Capability to store 500 contacts Embedded applications - mail @metro, metro411, mobile IM Preloaded (Sodoku) and downloadable games, ringtones and Wallpapers.

Read [eCoustics]