Sprint announces eco-friendly Samsung Replenish

Sprint unveiled its latest Android effort today in the eco- and wallet-friendly Samsung Replenish.

Powered by Android 2.2, the phone features a portrait-QWERTY design that includes a 2.8-inch touch screen and 2-megapixel camera. The handset also has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and support for microSD cards.

The Replenish is the fourth Sprint handset to bear the eco-friendly title. Other details that make this one environmentally sound: it uses fewer sensitive materials, it has an energy-efficient charger, and its packaging is fully recyclable. What's more, for $29 you can attach a unique back cover with solar panels that will charge the battery.

Like many of its recent Android offerings, the Samsung phone has access to Sprint ID Packs, providing tailored user experiences based around consumer needs. Also launching with the phone is a new Green ID pack, which offers recycling and energy-saving tips as well as apps like eBay Green, iRecycle, and Treehugger.com.

Sprint is not only going green with this handset, but the company is saving its customers a little green in the process. The carrier is lowering the monthly data plan by $10, meaning it should pay for itself after only five months. The Replenish goes on sale May 8 in Onyx Black and Arctic Blue options and will carry a very attractive price tag of $49.99. A third color, Raspberry Pink, will be available in June.