The Bellevue, Wash.-based company said the Sidekick LX 2009 is the first handset to run on its new 3G network for higher-speed data access, something customers have been clamoring for.
Featuring the Sidekick's famous swivel screen with a large QWERTY keypad, the new handset bundles social-networking applications from Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.
It also includes a GPS-enabled version of Live Search to let users map their current location, search for nearby businesses, share favorite spots with friends via an integrated messaging service and check real time traffic, gas prices or movie showtimes.
Additional features include an improved 3.2-megapixel camera with with an LED flash, auto-focus and video recording, microSD memory card slot and stereo Bluetooth.
The carrier said a software update for Exchange ActiveSync support is due "shortly" after its launch.
"Our Sidekick customers are going to be blown away by the new features this device is offering," said Denny Marie Post, chief marketing officer of T-Mobile. "The real-time notifications, tied with 3G speeds and GPS, will provide customers with the best experience of any Sidekick before, and we expect it will exceed their expectations."
Existing T-Mobile customers can buy the Sidekick LX 2009 online starting Friday or in stores starting May 13. It will cost $200 with a two-year subscription and a mail-in rebate.
