We're hearing that the
Alias 2 is on track for a release in less than two weeks from now -- May 11, to be exact -- which would mean that we're just a few short days away from seeing the very first E Ink handset launch in the States. Yes, that's right, we said it -- after all the heated debate over the technology powering the Alias 2's configurable keypad, our tipster tells us that new information floating down from corporate confirms that the device is using E Ink, which would explain why it's able to maintain state even with the power off. We still think it's one awfully ugly phone, but this might be one of those all-too-frequent cases where cool tech ends up winning our hearts anyway. As for pricing, the tipster thinks it may come in at $79, which seems improbable even with deep contract discounting and a big mail-in rebate -- but if by some miracle it does end up being accurate, they're going to be selling tons of these to text-heavy geeks like ourselves.
[Image via
PhoneArena, thanks ehjun]
posted May 1st 2009 9:35AM
Wow! that UI for the menu looks shitty, I hope it wont be like that
look up Microsoft BOB. MS tried the same thing years ago and it was a colossal failure. the E-Ink looks nice but that's about all that's appealing to me about this phone.
It's probably just one (crappy) alternative to VZW's standard UI.
if those keys are recessed into the phone that will be horrible, it kind of looks that way. if they are elevated then the keypad looks like it will be alright. Ill check this phone out.
WOW this phone is ugly! Samsung usually releases from very nice looking devices.
Does anyone remember Microsoft BOB?
As I recall, it was a MASSIVE success :/
I'd suggest removing the cartoons and employing common-sense phone menus. Just a thought...
i was thinking the same thing. these designers obviously don't check their history when designing a new UI. seems like a terrible idea to me.
full retail: 249.99
1 yr: 199.99 + 50$ rebate
2 yr:129.99 + 50$ rebate
straight from EGuide
looks as shitttty as a moto one...
E-Ink in color? Interesting. At least, possibly, it could be read/used outdoors, in the sun, perhaps. I tested a Samsung Impression outdoors at AT&T in bright clouds, and couldn't read the screen for the glare, though I could have combed my hair easily enough. What a terrific disappointment. An AMOLED screen which seemed no better than a regular LCD outside.
OOOOPS. Not the screen, the keyboard. And yet, there is color e-ink due out this year. Oh well, maybe someone will design a screen which can be read in the sun.