Verizon's Next Messaging-Oriented Smartphone Will Be the HTC Ozone

Verizon Wireless has just announced plans to release the HTC Ozone, a Windows phone with a very low price and a focus on mobile messaging.

The earlier rumors about this device were off on several points; they said this model would be called the XV6175, and that it would sell for just under $100. This device will actually go called the the HTC Ozone, and it will sell for $50 after a $70 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. 

An Overview of the HTC Ozone
This will be Verizon's version of the HTC Snap, a model that debuted in Europe this spring, and is also being offered by Sprint and T-Mobile USA.

Today's announcement is very short on details, but if the Ozone has the same features as it sister models, it will run Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard, and have have a 2.4-inch, 320-by-240-pixel display.

Naturally, this device will be able to access Verizon Wireless' mobile broadband network, but will also have global roaming capabilities and Wi-Fi.

In addition, it will offer support for some of this wireless phone company's services: VZ Navigator and Visual Voice Mail.

Coming Soon
Verizon will release the HTC Ozone online at www.verizonwireless.com starting on June 29. This smartphone will appear in Verizon stores on July 13.

Source: Verizon Wireless