U.S. Cellular Discounting Android Phones in Graduation Promotion

In honor of it being that time of year (or close to it) when the kids are wrapping up high school or college and preparing to leave the nest (or fly the coop), U.S. Cellular has announced that it will offer a special graduation promotion on select Android smartphones. The deal is geared toward outfitting high school or college grads with the latest technology, but of course anyone can take advantage of the offer’s discounts.

All told, there are three primary smartphones that U.S. Cellular is highlighting in the deal. A tablet is also included.

The flagship of this promotion, the Samsung Gem, is being discounted to the attractive price of absolutely nothing. It formerly cost $30 after rebate. The Gem features Android OS 2.2 (Froyo), a 3.2-inch QVGA (320 x 480) touchscreen in a bar shape, a 3.2 megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an included 4GB microSD card.

Another possibility on the list of discounted devices for graduates is the LG Optimus U, which sports some similar specs to the Gem. It too has Android 2.2 (Froyo), a 3.2-inch screen, a 3.2 megapixel camera, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It additionally features Swype technology as an alternative message for texting. The Optimus U costs $30 after rebate under the current promotion.

The final and most expensive option U.S. Cellular is highlighting is the high-end Samsung Mesmerize. It is available for $150 under the current promotion. This smartphone currently features the outdated Android OS 2.1 (Eclair), but will be upgradeable to Android OS 2.2. It also sports a 4-inch Super AMOLED touch screen and a 5.0 megapixel camera.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 7-inch tablet is also being promoted, and costs $200 when purchased with a data plan. This Android OS device can connect to U.S. Cellular's 3G data network.

Promotional prices for all of these devices will last through June 9, and require appropriate service plans. More information is available at uscellular.com.