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Here is the press release for your viewing pleasure:

Mobile music enters a new era today as Verizon Wireless and Rhapsody®, the digital music service from RealNetworks® and MTV Networks, launch V CAST Music with Rhapsody. Combining Verizon Wireless’ world-class, over-the-air mobile music service with Rhapsody’s leading desktop solution, V CAST Music with Rhapsody delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers, for about the cost of a single CD. In addition, customers who purchase music over-the-air are able to download the master copy of the songs or albums to their PCs free of digital rights management (DRM) software that restricts how and where music can be played.With V CAST Music with Rhapsody, Verizon Wireless customers are still able to purchase songs over-the-air within the V CAST coverage area for $1.99 and get two copies of the song: the first for their phones, the second for their PCs in the DRM-free MP3 format. When customers download the V CAST Music with Rhapsody Software to their PCs and sign up for the monthly subscription, they have the ultimate music management service, including:

• Unlimited subscription syncing with access to more than 5 million songs
• Creating and accessing playlists, viewing playlists of other users, including celebrities
• Burning, importing and converting CDs to play anywhere
• Managing an existing digital music collection for free and syncing it to their mobile phones
• Buying non-protected MP3s of songs on the PC for 99 cents per song
• Buying songs on the phone, over-the-air – get two copies of the song for just $1.99 (one is over-the-air, the second master copy is the file customers download onto their PCs)

By subscribing to V CAST Music with Rhapsody, customers can discover new music from millions of songs, without breaking the bank. Whether a hard core music fan or a casual listener, customers of all music appetites will love the flexibility that 5 million songs give them to discover new music, listen to old favorites and find just the right song to suit their mood.

While Verizon Wireless customers continue to have the ability to get their favorite music while on-the-go via full-song over-the-air downloads, ringtones and ringback tones, V CAST Music with Rhapsody also provides them with an award-winning desktop music application, allowing them to sync their favorite music quickly and easily, directly to their mobile phones. Now music lovers will be able to manage their collections with the most comprehensive music management tool and take their music with them anywhere.

John Harrobin, senior vice president of digital media and marketing for Verizon, said, “V CAST Music with Rhapsody fulfills Verizon’s promise to deliver the best mobile experience to our customers. Now, music fans can not only get the benefit of immediate access to music over-the-air, but also – through our partnership with Rhapsody – they can connect their mobile music and devices they carry with them everyday with the ultimate desktop experience.”

Rob Williams, senior vice president of music products for RealNetworks, noted, “Working with Verizon Wireless, we are able to extend the reach of the award-winning Rhapsody service to millions of mobile phones. V CAST Music with Rhapsody gives mobile phone users the best experience of any music service on the market while also giving them access to unlimited music, whether at home or on-the-go.”

Verizon Wireless customers who simply want to manage or buy music can download the V CAST Music with Rhapsody software for free at www.verizonwireless.com/music. Customers interested in a subscription may sign up for $14.99 monthly subscription online or by visiting a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, including those in Circuit City, or by calling Customer Service at 1-800-2 JOIN IN.

V CAST Music with Rhapsody will be available on the marquee V CAST Music with Rhapsody device, the LG Chocolate™ 3, when the phone becomes available in July; the service is also available today on select phones, including the LG Decoy™ and LG Dare™; MOTO™ W755; Samsung SCH-u550, Samsung Glyde™ and Samsung Juke. Customers using the MOTORIZR™ Z6tv, MOTORAZR² V9m or LG VX8700 may bring their phones into a Verizon Wireless Communications Store to receive a free software upgrade on their phones to access the service.

These days the rush is on between the major cell phone manufacturers to see who can make the most technologically advanced phone. The hot trends are of course are touch screen, high megapixel camera and high speed Internet connectivity. This is great for many of us, but where does it leave the rest of the cell phone users that just want a phone? There is a growing population of cell phone users that are flat out rejecting the latest line of phones. I group the users into a few different categories; the over 65 crowd, baby boomers and the purist. Let me take each group individually.

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If you thought you were going to walk into an Apple store next month and just purchase the new iPhone 3G think again. I heard somewhere that you had to purchase a contract before they would let you walk out of the store with the phone. I went over to my local Apple store today to see if what I heard was true. The answer is a big fat YES. The only way you’re going to get out of the store with a phone is if you physically grab one and run out of the store. I strongly recommend you don’t do that. This is going to be a real bummer if you bought the iPhone last year and signed up for a two year contract. Hence, the title of this article.

All in all I don’t think this is going to stop iPhones 3G from leaking into the market, but it is a measure by Apple and AT&T to try and put some control around the iPhones release. If you remember last year when the iPhone was unlocked it caused a huge uproar. Apple doesn’t want that to happen again if they can do something about it. Remember, Apple is a maker of proprietary electronics and always have been. So, in closing, if you were planning on walking into an Apple store next month to purchase the phone remember you won’t be able to unless you purchase an AT&T plan.

Nokia today announced the upcoming line of Supernova phones. Here is the official press release:

Recognizing that no one style fits all, Nokia today unveiled a new range of products to let consumers express their personal styles on a number of levels ranging from stylish designs, to personalization through vibrantly hued exchangeable covers.

The first four devices to launch as part of the new Nokia Supernova range feature a mix of bold colors and of-the-moment designs, evoking the allure of the latest statement handbags or must-have sunglasses. Aimed at style conscious men and women who want to stay connected, the new range delivers exceptional mobile functionality alongside a variety of music and internet experiences.

“As we rely more heavily on mobile phones to stay connected, they increasingly know everything about us and have become a window into our worlds,” said Jo Harlow, vice president, LIVE category, Nokia. “With the Supernova range, we set out to give people the ability to set themselves apart in the same way that they would with a traditional statement accessory.”

Xpress yourself

The new Nokia 7610, 7510 and 7310 Supernova devices give people an option to truly personalize their look by matching the style of their phone to their ever-changing moods with a choice of exchangeable Xpress-On covers in striking colors and glamorous surfaces.

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Everyone these days is hearing 3G this and 3G that. Heck, it’s even in the name of the new Apple iPhone that is being released next month, the iPhone 3G. Here’s a short and simple explanation without getting into all the details.

3G first and foremost stands for Third Generation. We are currently using 2G cell phones that work on 2G networks. As with anything in technology things have gotten better and therefore cell phone manufacturers and cell phone carriers are moving to 3G. So what is better about 3G than 2G? It really comes down to “speed”. The new 3G phones and networks allow for faster traffic. Just think dial-up to broadband. That’s what’s going on now with mobile technology. Some of the new services include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless data, all on your cell phone. There are a number of phones that are wi-fi compatible, but of course you have to be within a range of a router to use this capability. If you’re sitting at the beach you’re not going to be able to connect to a wi-fi network. But with 3G technology you can have the same benefits without having to be tied down to a router.

3G technology has made its way to the United States, but it isn’t available throughout each carriers network yet. If you live in a heavily populated city such as New York City then you’ll be able to use 3G phones. If you live in a small town chances are you won’t be able to use the benefits of a 3G phone. This is all quickly changes so stay tuned. To see if you get 3G in your area your best bet is to go to your cell phone carriers website and check. You’ll also need to make sure your cell phone is 3G compatible.

Well, that’s 3G in a nutshell. Now when you hear someone talking about 3G you’ll know exactly what it means.

MetroPCS Communications announced the launch of MetroFlash(TM), allowing consumers to bring their compatible CDMA handsets to be used on MetroPCS’ network. Coupled with its low cost, flat-rate unlimited wireless service, MetroPCS is further broadening consumers’ freedom to enjoy more cost efficient, flexible wireless options. MetroFlash(TM) will eliminate for many consumers the requirement of having to purchase a new handset when signing up for MetroPCS service.

Offering consumers the ability to join MetroPCS with their existing handset makes switching carriers easier - and more cost efficient - than ever, said Tom Keys, Chief Operating Officer of MetroPCS. Not since number portability have consumers been offered such a convenient option in switching service providers. With the rising cost of gas and food, consumers are looking for ways to reduce expenses and the launch of MetroFlash(TM), along with our flat-rate, unlimited low cost service plans, makes MetroPCS a more affordable wireless option.

Customers using MetroFlash(TM) will receive a free month of service, plus unlimited local, long distance, voicemail and text messaging for $40 a month and pay a $30 fee. The service will be available at all MetroPCS company owned stores and select authorized dealers in all MetroPCS markets, excluding Las Vegas and Shreveport/Bossier City. Consumers can go to www.metropcs.com or a MetroPCS company owned store to determine if their phone is compatible with MetroFlash(TM).

I’m really excited about this announcement. Hopefully this will be the first of good things to come. The carriers could now become more transparent. Just like you can now move your phone number to another carrier, MetroPCS has taken the next step. This would mean that you can now take your phone with you as you go also! I’m hoping that the other carriers follow MetroPCS’s lead. This is very exciting news! If you’re not sure if your phone is a CDMA phone than just do a search on the home page of this site and check “network”.

The N78 is a great little phone with tons of features. If you’re into get the latest and greatest definitely check out the N78. It has a lot of new features that haven’t been seen on other cell phones. Here is the official press release from Nokia:

Convergence craving consumers across the United States can set their sights on the newest Nokia Nseries device to hit American store shelves, the Nokia N78. Combining advanced mobile features such as integrated A-GPS, a 3.2 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics and high-speed HSDPA connectivity on North American 850/1900 MHz networks, the Nokia N78 is perfect for enjoying new Nokia services such as Nokia Maps and Share on Ovi. Along with this full suite of data features, the Nokia N78 has also been engineered for maximum voice and messaging performance as well. Now available through select consumer electronics and wireless retailers, online retailers and at the Nokia Flagship Stores in Chicago and New York, the Nokia N78 retails for approximately USD 560.

“Offering the robust feature set expected from an Nseries device, the integration of these features with Nokia’s new suite of Ovi services is what makes the Nokia N78 a perfect companion for a connected and mobile lifestyle,” said William Plummer, Vice President of Go-to-Market for Nokia. “Whether using GPS to find my way across town, adding geotag information to the images I capture and upload to Share on Ovi, or using the FM transmitter to listen to my music collection through my car stereo, the Nokia N78 keeps me connected and entertained wherever I go.”

Each Nokia N78 includes a free three-month trial navigation license for the Nokia Maps service, which enables users to calculate routing information, provides details on up to 15 million different points of interest, and gives audible and visual turn-by-turn directions from point A to point B. With the integrated A-GPS, users can ‘geotag’ images they capture on the Nokia N78 with location information. With this information images uploaded to Share on Ovi or other selected image sharing sites can include not only when the picture was taken - but also where the picture was taken, even displaying that information visually on a map.

For music fans, the Nokia N78 combines two exciting features - a digital music player and an integrated FM transmitter - to enable a complete audio experience. With storage for up to 8GB of music on an optional MicroSD memory card, a music collection can be easily shared and enjoyed in the home or car by playing it wirelessly through the FM radio.

Yet another useful tool that the Nokia N78 offers is widget support enabled by Web Runtime technology. This functionality allows easy mobile access to valuable online information, including weather, sports, news and more. A wide variety of widgets are available through the Download! client on the Nokia N78.

What do you get when you combine a Motorola phone and Kodak technology? Of course you get the new MOTOZINE ZN5. Here is the release that Motorola put out today:

Motorola and Kodak today announced MOTOZINE™ ZN5, the first product combining world-class innovation from both companies. The MOTOZINE ZN5 combines a high-quality phone and camera experience to help content-craving consumers seize inspiration and share the content they create and love with the world.

Unveiled today in Beijing at a gallery-inspired event, ZINE ZN5 delivers an easy and immersive mobile imaging experience. ZN5 is the first mobile phone to combine Motorola’s ModeShift Technology and KODAK Imaging Technology. Together, they redefine the quality, convenience and connectivity of mobile imaging devices. With KODAK EASYSHARE Software and easy access to KODAK Gallery¹ or other web sharing sites,² pictures are easily moved off the device, allowing consumers to print, share and enjoy their favorite photos whenever they want.

“Today’s creative consumers not only want to be the photographer, but also the retoucher, the exhibitor and the critic,” said Jeremy Dale, corporate vice president, mobile devices marketing, Motorola, Inc. “The MOTOZINE ZN5 lets them be all the things they want to be.”

Built to Shoot
ZN5 puts image capture first, with a high-resolution landscape screen and one of the fastest click-to-click times available. To launch the camera, simply slide open the Kodak lens cover to transform the phone into an ultra-fast 5 megapixel camera with auto-focus, a Xenon flash, 4GB of optional external memory and optimized settings for low-light environments.

Built-in KODAK Imaging Technology ensures that every picture taken with ZN5 looks its best. When KODAK Imaging Technology is combined with KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology, images become brighter and more vivid on the spot. Multiple capture modes, like multi-shot and panorama, which automatically stitches together continuous shots taken on the horizon line into a single, extended image, makes taking photos fun.

MOTOZINE ZN5 is the first device to carry the MOTOZINE franchise name, Motorola’s new label for its multimedia-optimized devices. For the consumer who thrives on content consumption and creation, products in the ZINE portfolio give them the freedom to shape pop culture, on their terms. MOTOZINE ZN5 will be first available in China in July 2008 and is expected to roll out around the globe throughout the remainder of the year.

Tennis star Maria Sharapova has inked a deal to be the global ambassador for Sony Ericsson. As a result Maria Sharapova has worked with Sony Ericsson to create her own line of accessories. The accessories include a tennis Courtside Case, a compact Exercise Case for trips to the gym, the Party Bag for her evening out in town, and the Travel Wallet. Look for these accessories in the third quarter.

As far as I know this is the first time that an athlete has branded accessories for cell phones. With Sony being so involved in sports, especially tennis, this is no surprise. I’m not sure how much these accessories will take off in the market, we’ll see.

Sprint recently announced pricing for Instinct, a new wireless device that offers consumers an industry-leading user experience by combining full touch-screen functionality with the fast speeds available on the largest national mobile broadband network. When the device launches on June 20, it will cost just $129.99 with a two-year contract after a $100 mail-in rebate.

Customers will be able to purchase Instinct through Sprint retail stores, Web (www.sprint.com) and telesales (1-800-SPRINT1.) Best Buy is Sprint’s exclusive retail partner for Instinct from June 20 - August 28.

In order for customers to experience the full capabilities of the device, Instinct must be activated on a pricing plan offering unlimited data. Customers can choose from Everything plans for individuals starting at just $69.99 per month for 450 voice minutes or Talk/Message/Data Share plans for families starting at $129.99 per month for 1500 voice minutes to share between two lines. Instinct complements Sprint’s signature Simply Everything Plan offering both unlimited nationwide voice and data services for just $99.99 per month. The Simply Everything Plan offers premium services, including GPS navigation, email, web surfing, Sprint Music Premier and Sprint TV Premier, while letting customers easily budget for phone expenses.

Instinct was recently named “Best in Show” in the third annual Emerging Technology (E-Tech) Award competition in April at CTIA Wireless 2008. Instinct was also honored as “Most Innovative Product at CTIA Wireless 2008″ by the editors of LAPTOP, a leading mobile technology magazine. CNET also recognized Instinct as the “Best Cell Phone” in its annual Cream of the Crop CTIA 2008 awards. See more pictures and the phone specifics HERE.