D-Link Announces Wi-Fi GSM Phone

D-Link enters the mobile phone market with the announcement of the V-CLICK dual-mode phones that allow users to switch between cellular and Wi-Fi networks with the click of a button.

The new D-Link V-CLICK line of phones will feature tri-band GSM (900/1800/1900 MHz) and 802.11 Wi-Fi access. It’s important to note that most GSM phones sold in North America have the 850 band, which is crucial to indoor reception. Its lack of the 850 band may be partially mitigated by its Wi-Fi connection that allows users to take advantage of VOIP.

The D-Link V-CLICK phones will initially not be locked to any particular network, allowing users to use their existing SIMs from traditional GSM cellular service providers anywhere in the world. By pressing the V-CLICK button, users activate a configurable wireless and SIP profile. Multiple profiles are available that make usage between home and office automatic.

Key features of the D-Link V-CLICK phone include:

• Wi-Fi profile roaming for uninterrupted service between wireless zones
• Opera Mobile browser for hot spot log-in and Web surfing
• Email functionality - 50 emails can be stored in up to 10 accounts
• Large color screen display with 176 by 220 pixels
• Sleek, compact form factor (height, 4.17", width, 1.73", depth, .75"; weight, 3.32 oz)
• Smart text input
• Talk time - up to 5 hours GSM, 2 hours 802.11 wireless mode
• Messages - up to 30 messages can be stored at 459 characters each
• Phonebook - up to 300 contacts
• Data storage - up to 24 megabytes for documents, images, music and video files.
• Tasks - stores up to 100 entries
• Calendar - up to 100 events, 160 letters per event
• Charging - 3 hours, first time charge 8 hours
• Compact design with internal antenna
• Power-saving mode for maximum standby and talk time

The V-CLICK is expected to ship during the first quarter of 2007 at a MSRP of $599.99.