SouthernLINC joins Android fray

Regional operator SouthernLINC Wireless launched Motorola Inc.’s first iDEN device running Google Inc.’s Android operating system, the Motorola i1.
The device was first unveiled at the recent CTIA event in Las Vegas, at which time both SouthernLINC Wireless and Sprint Nextel Corp. said they would launch the device.
The device includes a 3.1-inch touch-screen and includes support for the carriers’ iDEN-based push-to-talk service. In addition, the device includes an integrated Wi-Fi radio and a 5-megapixel camera. The phone also meets military specifications for protection against dust, shock, vibration and blowing rain, and it’s assumed will be able to handle a few real-world incidents caused by .
SouthernLINC Wireless is selling the device for $200 after all rebates and a two-year contract, or $275 with a one-year contract.
The device is seen as further evidence that perhaps iDEN networks are not quite yet ready to ride off into the sunset. Sprint Nextel has since Sprint Corp.’s acquisition of Nextel Communications Inc. wavered on its support of the iDEN network, having recently said it plans to support the network and basing its wildly successful Boost Mobile unlimited calling plans on the network. SouthernLINC has been more stable in its support of the network, which it uses to serve approximately 300,000 customers in the Southeast.