Helio
Helio Quietly Reboots On Sprint and Verizon's Networks
Helio, an MVNO that shuttered its doors years ago, is back. The company announced its return via Twitter and is once again offering prepaid service. The company operates on Sprint's network. Unlike before, however, Helio has a roaming agreement with Verizon Wireless, too, so customers will have greater network access when out and about. The basic service cost $29 per month, which includes unlimited voice, unlimited messaging (including international text), and unlimited 2G data capped at 128Kbps. Helio's web site does not say if or when it might offer 3G or 4G service. The $29 monthly plan includes all taxes and fees. The company supports a BYOD program, but requires handsets compatible with Sprint's network. It also sells a handful of older smartphones on its web site, including the Samsung Galaxy S3 and S4, for $249 and $299, respectively. Helio said it will sell its own branded handsets soon. Helio is offering the first month of service for free with no commitment. Helio was originally launched in 2006 as a joint venture between SK Telecom and Earthlink. It was folded into Virgin Mobile, another Sprint property, in 2008. Helio ceased all operations in 2010. Helio is now backed by a company called UBI.
Helio's First Phone Announced
VK Mobile today announced it will be shipping Helio's first phone for a US launch. The VK Mobile 650c is a stylish spinner EV-DO phone based on the 600c, which is launching in Korea now. It features a QVGA display which is centered to be held vertically for phone use or horizontally for watching video, as well as TV out for video playback on a larger screen. It also features a 2 Megapixel camera, MP3 player, stereo speakers, and TransFlash slot. This handset signals Helio's intent to focus on streaming video and music, similar to other 3G services. Additionally, the FCC has recently approved the SK Teletech SKY 8300, which is a slider EV-DO phone that shares most the 650c's features but adds additional buttons for gaming. It is likely this model will also be launched on Helio.
