Pantech announces the Pantech Matrix Pro

Pantech has just announced the Pantech Matrix Pro, a dual-slider smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.1. If you think Pantech Matrix sounds familiar, it's because Pantech released its non-smartphone cousin, the Pantech Matrix, a few months ago as a dual-slider messaging phone. The Matrix Pro is also Pantech's second attempt at a smartphone, after the rather sad Pantech Duo of two years ago. Also note that Pantech is the manufacturer behind the Helio Ocean and the Helio Ocean 2, which have a similar design.

Like all of its dual-slider handsets, the Matrix Pro slides up vertically to reveal a number keypad, and horizontally to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard. The Matrix Pro is a tad flashier than its regular cousin, with a mirror-finish exterior and sleeker design.

Of course like most smartphones, it has support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync for syncing with calendars, e-mail, and contacts, plus you get support for Microsoft Office documents. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera, A-GPS with AT&T Navigator, threaded SMS messaging, a music and video player, video share calling, AT&T Mobile Music, stereo Bluetooth, and a microSD card slot that supports up to 32GB cards. The phone is GPRS/EDGE quad-band and UMTS/HSDPA tri-band.

We're still hunting down specifics on pricing and availability, but it'll likely be soon.

Update: We just heard that the Pantech Matrix Pro will be available February 24 for $179.99 with rebates and a two-year service agreement.