Samsung Illusion / Proclaim
Verizon Brings Capped Data To Prepaid Plans
Verizon today expanded its already-large array of prepaid plan options with a data-centric smartphone option. For $80/month, the new plan includes 1 GB of data, plus unlimited messaging and voice minutes. After reaching 1 GB of data in a one-month period, users can buy additional data for $0.05/MB. The plan is available exclusively with the Samsung Illusion, an affordable Android phone with a curved glass display. The new plan will be available starting May 1st. The prepaid version of the Illusion phone will cost $170. Verizon's existing prepaid smartphone options include unlimited messaging and data - but limited peak voice minutes - starting at $95/month. The company also introduced three prepaid plan options for its Jetpack mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, including a $60/month plan that includes 3 GB of data.
Samsung Illusion Materializes on Verizon's Network
Verizon Wireless today announced the Samsung Illusion, a new Android 2.3 Gingerbread smartphone that is partially made from recycled materials. Samsung says the Illusion's battery cover uses 70% recycled materials, the front casing uses 35% recycled materials, the packaging is made from bleach-free paper and vegetable-based inks, and the box is made of 60% recycled paper. The Illusion features a 1GHz processor, 3-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, accelerometer, compass, GPS, and support for microSD cards up to 32GB. It ships with the Swype keyboard, mobile hotspot for up to five devices, and support for Google's services and Microsoft Exchange. The Illusion ships with a high efficiency charger. It will be available online starting November 23, but won't reach Verizon's retail stores until January 2012. It will costs $79.99 with a new agreement. (Verizon is offering the Illusion for free if purchased online between November 24 and 28.)
