Samsung Gem Android Smartphone Comes To Alltel For $0.00

Wow, Alltel! Haven't heard that name in a long, long time. Verizon Wireless swallowed Alltel Wireless last year, but in a few markets, Alltel stores still exist. Hard to say why they're still hanging around, but we're sure it's due to some strange loophole in the closing process. At any rate, those still living in an Alltel service area now have one more smartphone to consider, the Samsung Gem.

The Gem ships with Android 2.1, a 3.2MP camera, full touch panel, Swype virtual keyboard, Wi-Fi, 3G, Buetooth, and support for Alltel's still-existing "My Circle" calling plan. What's crazy is that this Android phone is being offered for free with a 2-year contract, making it one of the only (quite possible, the only) free new Android phone on any carrier. It's available now if you're in one of the six remaining states that Alltel serves.

Alltel Wireless launches latest generation Android smartphone - The Samsung Gem™
February 10, 2011

More applications and additional features from Android touch screen phone free at Alltel

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Alltel Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the number one mobile phone provider in the U.S. 1 today announced the availability of a new smartphone, the Samsung Gem™. . In addition to all the features you look for on an Android device and the large LCD touch display that brings it all to life, the Samsung Gem also offers new features and additional applications designed to give Alltel customers a premium Android experience.

The Samsung Gem comes equipped with Android 2.1 and provides built-in Google mobile services including Google Search™ and Google Maps™ with turn-by-turn GPS navigation. The Google™ user interface applications also allow customers to integrate their Outlook, Facebook and Gmail contacts, putting everything right where they need it on the large touch screen.

“Alltel Wireless is proud to add this advanced and versatile smartphone to our Android lineup,” said Scott Moody, Alltel Wireless Vice President of Products and Services. “The Samsung Gem offers our customers a premium smartphone experience at a great price.  The Samsung Gem is now free after a $50 mail in rebate at Alltel Wireless.”

For people who like to keep in touch with their friends, the Samsung Gem also features one-touch direct-to-social site photo posting, allowing users to conveniently post photos, messages or e-mails to their favorite social network sites with a simple touch. The 3.2 megapixel camera gives customers the ability to catch every moment through phone or video.

In addition to the advanced touchscreen display, Samsung Gem users will text, picture and video message with the Swype virtual keyboard, an innovative system that allows you to simply slide your finger from key to key, only raising it in between words. Consumers will also be able to drag and drop various widgets and icons to personalize their own unique screen.

Additional Samsung Gem key features include:
-          The smartphone is also Wi-Fi enabled, giving customers two ways to connect to the Internet – through Alltel’s fast 3G wireless network or through any available Wi-Fi hotspot.
-          Bluetooth® wireless technology for a hands-free experience or to easily transfer data to a computer.
The Samsung Gem is available at Alltel Wireless for free after a $50 mail in rebate and a two year service agreement.

Alltel Wireless continues to be an industry leader, providing customers most recently with “Best Value Unlimited Plans” which offer the most affordable and flexible options for those who love to talk and remain connected. Alltel Wireless also provides customers its exclusive “My Circle” feature – unlimited calling to and from any 5, 15 or 25 numbers on any network and unlimited text to their circle on select plans – as well as the innovative “Free Fridays” feature, where all calls on Friday are free on select plans.