Sprint announces first iDEN smart phone

Attention, globe-trotting execs: This week at CTIA, Sprint announced the Nextel i930 by Motorola, which is the first iDEN handset to feature the Windows Mobile Smartphone platform, giving you access to your Outlook e-mail, calendar, and contacts. The Motorola i930 is a world phone that operates on the 800/900 iDEN network domestically, then switches to 900/1800 GSM frequencies overseas using the included SIM card. Other features on the i930 include Nextel's walkie-talkie services (domestic and international), a VGA camera, and an SD expansion slot. The phone comes in a clamshell design, but we saw it at the show, and it's extremely bulky (3.46 by 1.93 by 1.18 inches; 5.9 ounces)--and it will cost a pricey $499.99. You should be able to find it cheaper with service, of course, and the phone is expected to be available in October. Check back soon for a First Take.