[IMG]http://simplefeed.consumerreports.org/rsrc/i/1/_/hot_summer_for_cool_smart_phones__291137223/4.gif?f=3dcb3160-01dc-11dc-32a2-0019bbc55f7f&s=AewyNia7NTvDvhaDemju5DEsbnVsbCwwLDA *[/IMG] Hot summer for cool smart phones

Get ready for an explosion of new smart phones this summer. Despite the economic downturn, consumer demand for these advanced cell phones remains strong, and all the major carriers are expanding their offerings. Most notable is Palm's Pre, which sports an advanced multi-touch display and a radically overhauled operating system capitalizing on the benefits of cloud computing. (Click on the image at right for a closer look.)

Both Palm and Sprint promised that new models would be in stores during the first half of the year.

PhoneNews.com predicts a Pre launch in May, with full deployment by June 29?coincidentally (or not) when Apple typically unveils its new iPhone models. Back in March, Apple gave us a sneak peek at its new iPhone operating system 3.0, which adds cut-and-paste features and turn-by-turn GPS navigation capabilities.

T-Mobile's G1, a.k.a. the "Google" phone, is about to get a little brother, probably on April 21. Dubbed Magic, according to FierceWireless.com, the new phone is made by HTC, as is the G1. Both models run on Google's Android operating system. More such phones are promised from Samsung, Motorola, and other phone makers later this year. ?Mike Gikas


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