(Click here for larger image)Cingular says that its UMTS/HSDPA-enabled "BroadbandConnect" service provides average downlink data speeds between 400-700 Kbps, with bursts in excess of 1 Mbps, and provides uplink speeds as fast as 384Kbps. The service is currently available in 134 locales in the U.S. with populations of more than 100,000, encompassing more than 50 major cities, according to Cingular.
UMTS/HSDPA (high-speed downlink packet access) supports simultaneous voice and data functionality. For example, the 8525 can be used as a wireless broadband modem tethered to a PC, while simultaneously making and receiving mobile phone calls. Cingular claims that it is the only 3G wireless provider in the U.S. to offer that capability.
The Hermes platform, self-branded by HTC as the
TyTN Pocket PC, is based on a 400 MHz Samsung "stacked" CPU, along with 64 MB of RAM and 128 MB of flash memory. More details on HTC's Hermes platform, on Cingular's 8525 is said to be based, are available
here. Cingular's configuration includes both 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth.
When coupled with a Bluetooth GPS receiver, the 8525 supports Cingular's first location-based service,
TeleNav GPS Navigator. This subscription service provides turn-by-turn voice and on-screen directions and locates businesses and other points of interest, according to TeleNav.
The 8525 will be available exclusively from Cingular beginning Nov. 16, priced at around $400, according to the company.
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