U.S. Cellular today announced its fourth Android-based smartphone, the LG Apex, for a November 19 release. After last month’s Samsung Mesmerize, the Apex uses Android 2.1 and carries a price tag of $79.99 after an $80 mail-in rebate.
Unlike the Galaxy S Mesmermize, however, the hardware details for the LG Apex indicate an entry-level device with a 3.2-inch touch screen, sliding QWERTY keyboard, and 3-megapixel camera. The smartphone should pair well with the new Primary Plus Plan.
As handset makers continue to push the envelope with cutting-edge technology and high-end hardware, phones like the Apex will attract new smartphone buyers with their lower cost and focus on usability. But the Chicago-based carrier’s Android amibiltions don’t stop there. Earlier this week it announced that its own version of the Samsung Galaxy Tab also will arrive on November 19. As most of the larger carriers are doing, U.S. Cellular will offer the Tab for $399 after a $100 mail-in rebate and a two-year contract.
What’s more, December will bring U.S. Cellular’s fifth Android phone with the LG Optimus U. LG announced yesterday that it has crossed the 1 million devices sold mark in only 40 days, making the Optimus line its most successful smartphone series to date. Look for the Optimus U to closely resemble Sprint’s Optimus T and T-Mobile’s Optimus S.