Sprint announces Dual Mode phones

The first two devices are the Buzz ic502 and the Blend ic402. In addition to walkie-talkie services, both handsets also support short-range off-network walkie-talkie conversations between users with other Direct Talk-capable Nextel phones.

The Motorola Buzz ic502 is rugged clamshell, certified to military specification 810F for dust, shock and vibration. The phone weighs 4.1 ounces and sports an average 176x220 pixels main screen and small external display, and is available in black. The device is currently being sold for a suggested retail price of $249.99 and as low as $59.99 with a two-year subscriber agreement and $40 mail-in-rebate.

The Motorola Blend ic402 is larger and heavier at 4.4 oz and has smaller 128x160 pixels display. It is currently being sold for a suggested retail price of $229.99 and as low as $39.99 with a two-year subscriber agreement and a $40 mail-in-rebate.

Customers can choose from a variety of voice service plans similar to what is offered for Nextel-only phones that start as low as $29.99 per month for 200 anytime minutes.

New Sprint Power Pack plans $39.99 and above include Unlimited Nationwide Walkie-Talkie services, Unlimited Nights starting at 7 p.m., unlimited weekends, no roaming charges and nationwide long-distance. There is an option to purchase nights and weekends starting at 6 p.m. for an additional $5 per month.

Customers also have the option of selecting a Sprint Free Incoming plan starting from $49.99 for 300 outgoing minutes. All Free Incoming plans include free incoming calls from anyone, anywhere as well as Unlimited Nationwide Walkie-Talkie services, Unlimited Nights starting at 9 p.m., unlimited weekends, no roaming charges and nationwide long-distance.

In addition, Customers can add on data or advanced voice services for an additional charge including unlimited Nextel International or Group Walkie-Talkie, unlimited Mobile to Mobile, text messaging or Sprint's PowerSource Data Pack that includes unlimited data access, Web browsing PLUS 1000 Text Messages for just $10 per month.