Verizon Wireless’ highly anticipated press-to-talk service is expected to introduce tomorrow with the carrier rolling out a nationwide offering using the carrier’s CDMA2000 1x packet network, Winphoria’s PTT server and initially a Motorola V60p handset. The service is expected to be similar to Nextel Communications Inc.’s Direct Connect service, though analysts have noted the Verizon Wireless service might not match Nextel’s sub-one-second setup time.
The Motorola handset, which is similar to the current V60 model except for the addition of a speakerphone, vents molded into the sides of the keypad and a rubberized press-to-talk button on the side of the handset, is expected to sell for between $150 and $200, depending on the length of contract. An additional handset from Samsung Corp. is expected to be introduced shortly after the service is launched.
According to industry sources, Verizon Wireless’ press-to-talk service will allow users to register contacts via a special link from the carrier’s Web site, include a “presence” functionality for up to 150 people and 50 groups, and alert users when they miss cellular calls when using the press-to-talk feature.
Verizon Wireless was expected to launch its walkie-talkie service at the beginning of July but reportedly pulled the launch after Nextel claimed it had patented the Push To Talk and PTT descriptions Verizon Wireless planned to use for its service. Verizon Wireless set up a Push to Talk Internet login page for testing of its service that used the Push to Talk description for the service.
Verizon Wireless’ relationship with Nextel further soured last month when Verizon Wireless filed a lawsuit against Nextel claiming the Reston, Va.-based carrier had illegally obtained a pair of press-to-talk-enabled Verizon Wireless handsets and tested the service using Verizon Wireless’ network.
Sprint PCS is also expected to launch a press-to-talk service dubbed Ready Link by the fourth quarter and reported last week that it had entered final testing of the service with business clients. The carrier said its service will include both a ruggedized “candy-bar” style handset and a flip phone.
