AT&T Getting the Pantech Matrix Pro Dual-Slider Smartphone

AT&T will release the Pantech Matrix Pro later this month. This Windows Mobile smartphone will offer an unusual dual-sliding, double-keyboard design.

It will be the follow-up for the Pantech Duo, and offer a larger display, tri-band 3G, an upgraded camera, more memory, and a faster processor.

A Dual Slider
When completely closed, only the Matrix Pro's display and D-pad will be exposed, but the user will have the option of sliding a numberpad out from the bottom, or turning the device on its side and sliding out a landscape-oriented QWERTY keyboard.

This model's display will be 2.4 inches across and have a QVGA (320 x 240) resolution.

When closed, this device will be 4.2 inches by 2.0 inches by 0.85 inches, and 4.3 ounces. It will have a steel-blue metallic finish.

"The Matrix Pro is a fantastic-looking device and a significant evolution in this dual-sliding family of phones," said Michael Woodward, vice president -- Smart Devices for AT&T Mobility. "We've seen the Matrix become a hit with consumers, and the Matrix Pro will appeal to anyone who wants a powerful smartphone with a great design."

Windows Mobile's Power
The Matrix Pro will run the Standard edition of Windows Mobile 6.1, which is for devices without touchscreens.

It will come with a suite of applications for handling email, surfing the Web, and playing audio and video. Windows Mobile also has a "lite" version of Microsoft Office.

A microSD card slot will allow users to store up 32 GB of files, from documents to MP3s.

3G Everywhere
This Pantech model will offer quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, plus the latest 3G technologies: HSDPA and HSUPA. And its 3G service will work in the U.S. and around the world.

It will have a 2 MPx camera, and customers in 3G coverage will be able to use AT&T Video Share to send live video during a phone call to a user with a compatible phone

Matrix Pro users will have the option of Bluetooth for wireless headsets or a 3.5mm headset jack.

AT&T says this device's 1320mAh Li-polymer battery will be good for up to 3 hours of talk time or up  to 10.4 days of stand-by time.

Pricing and Availability 
The Matrix Pro will debut Feb. 24 at AT&T's company-owned stores and its website. 

This smartphone will sell for $180 after a two-year service agreement and a $50 mail-in rebate.

Additional Images

• Side View
• Front View, with Numberpad
• Front View, with QWERTY Keyboard

Source: AT&T