Audiovox to ship 3G handsets, introduces others at Wireless I.T.

In conjunction with CTIA’s Wireless I.T. & Internet show, Audiovox Communications (www.audiovox.com) announced several new handsets, including the announcement that it’s shipping its wireless handsets using cdma2000 1XRTT technology.

Audiovox’s CDM-9150 and the CDM-8150 phones, when used on carrier systems that support 3G cdma2000 1X technology, give users increased speed and bandwidth of next-generation networks and enhance data, video and text transmission and reception.

In a statement, Philip Christopher, Audiovox Communications president & CEO said that the availability of the CDM-9150 and CDM-8150 will facilitate the transition to 3G wireless communications, adding that “as more and more U.S. wireless carriers launch their 1X technology systems, having high-quality, user-friendly 1X handsets on hand will help the carriers and their respective customers make the change to the increased speed and wider bandwidth of this next-generation technology.”

The handsets are tri-mode, and have Web-browsing capabilities operating on the 800MHz in CDMA and 1.9GHz frequencies. Both come equipped with the MSM-5105 chipset.

The company also introduced two other handsets.

The tri-mode CDM-8200 operates on the 800MHz AMPS/CDMA and 1.9GHz frequencies and is equipped with a built in Web browser (UP 4.1). The handset is from Audiovox’s predecessor: the CDM-8100 wireless Web-browsing phone. Driven by the MSM-3100 chipset, the CDM-8200 is data-capable and loaded with 2-way SMS, T9 predictive text messaging and a built in speakerphone. The handset also comes with caller ID, voice/text messaging service and voice/text message alert. The package includes a standard Li Ion battery, travel charger and wrist strap. Additional accessories include an extended Li Ion battery, cigarette lighter charger, cigarette hands-free lighter charger, hands-free car kit, earphone microphone, a leather bag and a data interface cable.

The dual-mode CDM-100, an entry-level handset operates on 800MHz AMPS/CDMA frequencies. The phone also features the MSM-3100 chipset, a 4-line graphic dot matrix LCD display and weighs 4.8 ounces. The CDM-100 will be available in October.