MotoSummer 2004
First, a quick note about what was not at the event - the MPx100. Unfortunately, Motorola officials confirmed that this device has officially been cancelled. It seems that market demand is simply much higher for clamshell-style models, especially among the professional users that are the target market for the MPx series.
But Motorola is now officially (finally) showing off its highly-anticipated MPx220 smartphone. This Windows Mobile device is by far the most advanced Microsoft Smartphone announced to date, with quad-band GSM, Bluetooth, megapixel camera, and dual color displays.
The phone seems solid and well-designed, with good ergonomics. The outer display is decent quality - not as bad as some photos floating around the 'net had previously led me to believe.
The phone is a bit large, but not excessively so. Still, reducing the size is one of Motorola's key goals for future models.
The MPx220 is currently slated to be available from both AT&T Wireless and Cingular in October.
The revolutionary dual-flip MPx was also on display. Motorola continues to tweak the keyboard for maximum readability and ergonomics. The photos below show the newest revision, which was manufactured just a couple of weeks ago.
The MPx release date has slipped a bit since it was first announced. It's now unlikely (although not impossible) that we'll see it released anytime before the end of the year. The first quarter of 2005 is now the most likely timeframe. Carriers have not yet been finalized, although reportedly interest is high.