Pantech Launches Korea’s First Smartphone

ASIA : Pantech announced that it has launched the PH-S8000T, the first smartphone to be introduced to Korea.

The new phone, which is equipped with the Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition and Intel Mobile Processor, and was developed in close partnership with Microsoft and Intel, will be initially aimed at mobile professionals - “knowledge workers” - and entertainment multimedia enthusiasts.

Sung-Kyu Lee, President & CEO, Pantech Co., Ltd., said: “The world class functionality in the PH-S8000T means that users will be able to access a vast range of applications, which will significantly add to their professional and personal lives. Effectively, having the PH-S8000T will be just like having a computer in your hand”.

The new Windows Mobile smartphone features Internet Explorer Mobile Version, which means that users can surf the Internet using the handset, while the Microsoft ActiveSync system allows users to synchronize information stored on their personal computers. Integration with Microsoft Outlook also means that users can access and update their personal email and schedules.

The PH-S8000T also includes a 1.3M camera, which allows users to take and store high quality photographs, as well as moving images. Other features include, VOD, MP3, photo caller ID, and Yamaha 64 poly-tone sound.

Pantech has been steadily increasing the range and depth of its product portfolio in recent months. In recent weeks, the company has launched its PG-6100 multimedia phone, a new model aimed at young, trend conscious, style savvy consumers, and its new T-slide models, the PT-S110 and the PT-K1100. Over the coming months, the company plans to introduce further handsets with digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) and Bluetooth functionality.

The company’s focus on innovation and excellence has also been recognized by the wider mobile communications industry. Just last month, Pantech’s GI100 handset was honored with the Best Mobile Phone Application accolade at the prestigious Asian Mobile News Awards.

The company has also significantly strengthened its operations with the recent acquisition of SK Teletech, a subsidiary of SK Telecom. The deal means that Pantech is now the second largest producer of mobile phones in Korea, after Samsung Electronics.

PH-S8000T features include:

· Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition for SmartPhone

· MSM6500(CDMA1*EV-DO 800mhz)

· Main CPU: Intel Bulverde 400Mhz

· 128MB Rom + 32MB Ram

· Modern Memory(8mb*4mb)

· 1.3k CMOS TYPE with LED Flash

· Dimensions: 91.7*49.2*25.9mm

· Weight: 141.2g

· Retractable type antenna

· SMS/EMS/MMS

Pricing & availability:
The PH-S8000T will be available in July. The expected retail price will be approximately KRW 450,000-500,000.