[Pre] Pricing, Availability & Launch Dates

[laursifer]

Use this thread for discussions about Pre pricing and availability dates/outlets.

[SL-10]

Rumor: BestBuy Mobile to Get Palm Pre Exclusively for 2 months?

Posted on 15 January 2009 by Kim Poh Liaw

http://www.slashphone.com/rumor-bestbuy-mobile-to-get-palm-pre-exclusively-for-2-months-154138

http://www.slashphone.com/media/data/800/medium/palm-pre-bestbuy.jpg


While it is few more months to go when Sprint and Palm present the new Palm Pre to the consumer, WebOS Arena has got a tips from a reliable source that BestBuy Mobile will get the Palm Pre exclusively right for 60 days during the initial launch. Other than Sprint itself, BestBuy Mobile will be the only place you can buy a Palm Pre.

Other than the retailer rumor, the Palm Pre is said to be priced less than $200 with 2 years contract and $399 without mobile service contract.

[ame]

I am curious to see if this happens. I buy all my phones at a sprint store normally but if it works out at Best Buy Ill do it.

[cjbritton]

I think that all they mean by "exclusive" here, is that other outlets that would normally have a selection of Sprint phones (i.e. Radio Shack) won't have it to begin with. While technically the Sprint stores are a retail outlet, they are part & parcel with the "Sprint exclusive", so you will still be able to purchase the Pre via Sprint store, telesales & Sprint website.

[mbrenner]

I hope to get one of these to replace my Centro. However I worry that this phone will be released with a new round of "you can't have it on your plan" rules.

I remember that when I switched from my vision phone to my "powervision" phone all of a sudden no data access was included, and text messages were not included either. It took many rounds of calls and dealing with retentions to get my plan back close to what it was when I first signed up for it. Lots of codes later, I have data access and some text (not unlimited like it was with my old Vision phone) for the same cost as my plan prior to powervision. Lots of codes however did mean that my billing got messed up a lot in the beginning and again every now an again requiring calls to sprint to fix my bill.

I hope that they see this phone as a way to attract new customers and retain old ones rather than an opportunity to force existing customers to migrate to more expensive plans.



Rumor: BestBuy Mobile to Get Palm Pre Exclusively for 2 months?

Posted on 15 January 2009 by Kim Poh Liaw

http://www.slashphone.com/rumor-bestbuy-mobile-to-get-palm-pre-exclusively-for-2-months-154138


Other than the retailer rumor, the Palm Pre is said to be priced less than $200 with 2 years contract and $399 without mobile service contract.

[laursifer]

Wirelessly posted (Palm Centro: Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows 98; PalmSource/Palm-D062; Blazer/4.5) 16;320x320)

That was at the birth of Power Vision, an all-new service/feature which was new to Sprint AND their phones. A LOT was changing at the time with Sprint's network and their phones all-together.



The Pre is just a new device. It would be like going from an HTC Mogul to an HTC Diamond. Or a Centro to a Pre. There is nothing about the Pre that indicates your current Centro or other Palm phones' plans won't be compatible with it. It uses airtime and Power Vision data. Nothing new.

[AmeriKenny]

Does anyone think the Pre will have a required Everything plan like the Samsung Instinct? I pray it doesn't.

[patchs]

Does anyone think the Pre will have a required Everything plan like the Samsung Instinct? I pray it doesn't.

I pray too but hearing Dan Hesse talk about ARPU at the Pre's unveiling doesn't give me hope.
Sprint knows they have a hot ticket and they're going to milk it for everything that can.
:fingers: you can keep SERO and get a Pre.

[AmeriKenny]

I pray too but hearing Dan Hesse talk about ARPU at the Pre's unveiling doesn't give me hope.
Sprint knows they have a hot ticket and they're going to milk it for everything that can.
:fingers: you can keep SERO and get a Pre.
Could you please explain to me what SERO is?

[patchs]

There's a whole bunch of threads on it but basically it's a no longer available plan that you could get unlimited text, Powervision and a certain amount of minutes for an unbelievable price, like $30 a month.
Heck, there's a Pre SERO thread.

[ScrapMaker]

Could you please explain to me what SERO is?

There's a whole bunch of threads on it but basically it's a no longer available plan that you could get unlimited text, Powervision and a certain amount of minutes for an unbelievable price, like $30 a month.
Heck, there's a Pre SERO thread.

It's a plan that is SPECIFICALLY intended for Sprint employees/families/etc... but MANY have abused this qualification system, and have given the info out to hundreds, if not thousands, over the forums and whatnot.

I think Sprint should have made it much more difficult to get SERO, but hey, if you have SERO and are saving money, then more power to you.

[htowngator]

It's a plan that is SPECIFICALLY intended for Sprint employees/families/etc... but MANY have abused this qualification system, and have given the info out to hundreds, if not thousands, over the forums and whatnot.

I think Sprint should have made it much more difficult to get SERO, but hey, if you have SERO and are saving money, then more power to you.

Yea people did abuse it, but honestly wasn't there a time when Sprint was promoting it? I remember people here talking about how Sprint was giving out a generic login for SERO so more users could sign up.

I know eventually I'll have to give up my $30 SERO plan, but I'm going to hold on to that as long as possible :).

[ronboykin]

Is the Pre going to have picture mail like the Treo 755? I hope it will. I think we should all call Sprint and ask if you can upgrade to the Pre and use it on your current plan. Some of us don't want to change plans to the Everything plan! I called Sprint once before about upgrading to the Touch Pro on my current Sero plan and they were nice about this. They said they encourage people to get the Everything plan on most of their HTC phones but there could be exceptions.

[the.traveller]

It seems like Sprint's customers are forever waiting for good phones to come to this carrier. Missed on the iphone, missed on the G1, missed on the storm, can't really compare the instinct to the omnia (etc).....and when finally it appears that we are going to get a cutting edge device (albeit with a weak 1150 mAh battery) the threat of the SEP comes up.

So our options are to perpetually change our providers (to get the better phones) or change our plan (to get Sprint's flagships). Fortunately neither the Diamond nor the Pro require a plan change, but cost more than all the other comparable devices. Still I would rather pay a one-time higher price and keep a low monthly plan for 2 years....even 3.

[rilharri]

It seems like Sprint's customers are forever waiting for good phones to come to this carrier. Missed on the iphone, missed on the G1, missed on the storm, can't really compare the instinct to the omnia (etc).....and when finally it appears that we are going to get a cutting edge device (albeit with a weak 1150 mAh battery) the threat of the SEP comes up.
So our options are to perpetually change our providers (to get the better phones) or change our plan (to get Sprint's flagships). Fortunately neither the Diamond nor the Pro require a plan change, but cost more than all the other comparable devices. Still I would rather pay a one-time higher price and keep a low monthly plan for 2 years....even 3.

All of the phones you listed REQUIRE at "special plan"...

That only shows that MASS Pulbic will pay more, Sprint Should require a everything data or sep on the Pre sorry...

[Trekker]

Could you please explain to me what SERO is?

It's a plan for leeches. Once they have it, they continue to complain about Sprint ripping them off by not giving then huge discounts on phones.

[ScrapMaker]

It's a plan for leeches. Once they have it, they continue to complain about Sprint ripping them off by not giving then huge discounts on phones.

+1

I have heard reps complain a lot that perfect strangers come in and ask if they can get on SERO...

you're supposed to be a family member or close friend.

[Noodle]

Wirelessly posted (Noodle's Phone: Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 4.01; Windows CE; PPC; 240x320))

can we not talk about SERO in here? Keep it to the SERO Pre thread or just the SERO thread.

Anyway I would think they would price it around $199 - $250.

As far as a plan I highly doubt a SE plan will be required. For them to force that would require that the phone will support everything from Sprint TV, to Video Mail, etc. out of the box from day 1 otherwise I would think too many people would have an out on their contract.

[triggarhappy]

I would like to add my 2 cents to the rumor about Sprint, Best Buy getting this phone. The 60 day exclusive sale could mean two things, yes it could mean Sprint and Best Buy will be the only ones carrying it for the first 60 days. or it could mean Sprint telesales and Best Buy will be the only place to get the phone. We were the only ones carrying the Blue rumor before Sprint, Purple Rant before Sprint and the Blackberry 8350i before Sprint. So if Best Buy can pull this off, which they have the pull now since Best Buy Mobile has been blowing up and all the carriers are feeding off of it. Do I want to see this happen? Heck yeah lol not to be greedy but I'm very passionate about my job and proud to work for the mobile side of Best Buy so if this rumor is correct this will position Best Buy Mobile as a force to look out for.

Already we have carrier stores spreading false rumors about us cause some of the stuff they can not compete with. I give At&t created for actually sending business our way when we started carrying the iPhone because their customers wanted to have a phone and have it covered and Best Buy was the only place to get that done so they sent customers to us.....Ok off topic...

Now time for me to start watching my emails and information coming down the pipeline on where we will stand and pricing

[udratherbme]

well i went to the mall Sprint Kiosk on saturday and figured i would do some research, the rep was really informative "not"... i asked about the pre and he say that he had talked to a couple of managers in the area and they all expect NLT April, only b/c of all the advertisement that is available, he say that they normally would not put advertisement on their web page too early so that may be something to ponder, as far as pricing he is saying the same thing everybody is saying of the rumored prices... 149 on contract 399 w/o... you know that all could change if there were another kellogg/sprint cup rebate like a few years ago...... that included the pre

[patchs]

well i went to the mall Sprint Kiosk on saturday and figured i would do some research, the rep was really informative "not"... i asked about the pre and he say that he had talked to a couple of managers in the area and they all expect NLT April, only b/c of all the advertisement that is available, he say that they normally would not put advertisement on their web page too early so that may be something to ponder, as far as pricing he is saying the same thing everybody is saying of the rumored prices... 149 on contract 399 w/o... you know that all could change if there were another kellogg/sprint cup rebate like a few years ago...... that included the pre

Considering the Pre was just introduced 10 days ago, that's some decent info.
I really think the specifics haven't been decided yet, so take it with a grain of salt.
Plus you figure if it's a kiosk, most likely, it's a 3rd party reseller.

[htowngator]

It's a plan for leeches. Once they have it, they continue to complain about Sprint ripping them off by not giving then huge discounts on phones.

wow angry much?

[ScrapMaker]

wow angry much?

He's probably just tired of hearing everyone ***** and moan about not being able to keep a cheapo plan that's not intended to be as wide-spread as it turned out to be.

[htowngator]

He's probably just tired of hearing everyone ***** and moan about not being able to keep a cheapo plan that's not intended to be as wide-spread as it turned out to be.

Intended or not, it's sour grapes and honestly a legit complaint from people. Just because they have the SERO plan doesn't mean they aren't entitled to want to keep it. It is a great deal, and honestly people that get upset about SERO complaints from users here are likely those w/o the plan ergo sour grapes.

If you have the $30 plan then it's understandable to want to keep it, no matter how you go it.

[ScrapMaker]

Intended or not, it's sour grapes and honestly a legit complaint from people. Just because they have the SERO plan doesn't mean they aren't entitled to want to keep it. It is a great deal, and honestly people that get upset about SERO complaints from users here are likely those w/o the plan ergo sour grapes.

If you have the $30 plan then it's understandable to want to keep it, no matter how you go it.

I can understand wanting to keep it, but whining on here isn't going to fix a thing. All it does is annoy others.

I had a plan that was similarly-priced to SERO, that I got a long time ago, and I got grandfathered vision and whatnot, and I felt that it was just a nice perk of being a long-time, loyal customer... I didn't ask for it, I didn't find any loopholes to get either.

I switched to SEP, because it's the best deal in wireless history--ever. To get the same thing on an iPhone, you'd be looking at nearly $200 a month.

Really, this should be in the SERO thread. Let's get back to basic pricing and release dates.

I sure hope it comes out February/March... but now I see that WM7 might be coming out REALLY soon... so that could change everything, completely...

[Trekker]

He's probably just tired of hearing everyone ***** and moan about not being able to keep a cheapo plan that's not intended to be as wide-spread as it turned out to be.

I should clarify things....I didn't mean to say everyone that has a sero plan was a leech, if you got one, good for you.

The people that bother me (and the ones that I refer to as leeches) are the ones that don't appreciate a good deal and want discount on top of discount on top of discount.

I've seen more than one person that has a sero plan start whining about how they are "getting screwed by Sprint" because they have to pay full price for a phone and "it's not fair that others can get discounted phones but they can't."

My apologies for talking sero in this thread. There is a place for it and it isn't here.

[udratherbme]

Don't know if this is the correct forum for this but Sprint's and Palm's fears are going to be realized soon... just read over @ engadet, which very well may be a rumor, G2 expected in May

[htowngator]

Don't know if this is the correct forum for this but Sprint's and Palm's fears are going to be realized soon... just read over @ engadet, which very well may be a rumor, G2 expected in May

wow it looks amazing and with an OLED screen to boot :o

its too bad it's on a network as craptastic at t-mobile

[btwilli1]

hey, the pre has a curved multitouch screen to the edge baby! OLED, not that much in battery savings, ha ha.

Maybe this means a late march early april release date if the g2 is coming in may.

[NM08SRT8]

Intended or not, it's sour grapes and honestly a legit complaint from people. Just because they have the SERO plan doesn't mean they aren't entitled to want to keep it. It is a great deal, and honestly people that get upset about SERO complaints from users here are likely those w/o the plan ergo sour grapes.

If you have the $30 plan then it's understandable to want to keep it, no matter how you go it.
No one is saying you can't keep SERO, but you know what, everything comes at a price, and sacrifices have to be made. You want to be on a cheap plan? Fine, go right ahead, but you will limit yourself to what you can get. You SERO people can't get everything. Don't think you're going to get treated like us when you're already getting special treatment that was abused by everyone.

I'm happy to pay $99 for my Unl SEP plan, and I'm damn proud that I'll be rewarded for it by being eligible for the Pre. You SERO people are like, "give me a exotic car for $500, oh and don't cheap out on me, I want a free tank of gas too". Meanwhile all of us are paying what the car's worth, and we get our free tank of gas.. because we DESERVE IT...

[NM08SRT8]

I can understand wanting to keep it, but whining on here isn't going to fix a thing. All it does is annoy others.

I had a plan that was similarly-priced to SERO, that I got a long time ago, and I got grandfathered vision and whatnot, and I felt that it was just a nice perk of being a long-time, loyal customer... I didn't ask for it, I didn't find any loopholes to get either.

I switched to SEP, because it's the best deal in wireless history--ever. To get the same thing on an iPhone, you'd be looking at nearly $200 a month.

Really, this should be in the SERO thread. Let's get back to basic pricing and release dates.

I sure hope it comes out February/March... but now I see that WM7 might be coming out REALLY soon... so that could change everything, completely...
Right, disregard my above post.. Moving on!

[htowngator]

No one is saying you can't keep SERO, but you know what, everything comes at a price, and sacrifices have to be made. You want to be on a cheap plan? Fine, go right ahead, but you will limit yourself to what you can get. You SERO people can't get everything. Don't think you're going to get treated like us when you're already getting special treatment that was abused by everyone.

I'm happy to pay $99 for my Unl SEP plan, and I'm damn proud that I'll be rewarded for it by being eligible for the Pre. You SERO people are like, "give me a exotic car for $500, oh and don't cheap out on me, I want a free tank of gas too". Meanwhile all of us are paying what the car's worth, and we get our free tank of gas.. because we DESERVE IT...

No one said SERO people "deserve" anything, and in fact I think most have said if they have to give up SERO they won't buy the phone. You guys are reacting just as negatively in the other direction, and need to understand that it is a LEGIT argument. How people arrived at SERO is irrelevant, and honestly a fair complaint if Sprint says you must be forced into what they want to use a specific phone.

I can get the cheapest SEP for $52 with my corp discount which is still $22 more than my SERO for the same thing. It's not a bank breaker and honestly if I wanted the Pre I wouldn't mind switching. However, that doesn't mean that I can't attempt to keep my cheaper plan and use new phones. It is in my right as a contract holder to keep that price. After two years if Sprint wants to say "no more" for my SERO plan then so be it.

[NM08SRT8]

No one said SERO people "deserve" anything, and in fact I think most have said if they have to give up SERO they won't buy the phone. You guys are reacting just as negatively in the other direction, and need to understand that it is a LEGIT argument. How people arrived at SERO is irrelevant, and honestly a fair complaint if Sprint says you must be forced into what they want to use a specific phone.

I can get the cheapest SEP for $52 with my corp discount which is still $22 more than my SERO for the same thing. It's not a bank breaker and honestly if I wanted the Pre I wouldn't mind switching. However, that doesn't mean that I can't attempt to keep my cheaper plan and use new phones. It is in my right as a contract holder to keep that price. After two years if Sprint wants to say "no more" for my SERO plan then so be it.
Yeah but it doesn't say anything in your contract that you can keep your SERO plan when Sprint requires phones to have SEP plans either, and you want one. Think Sprint is going to change the rules just for you? lol, uh NOT

[jschu22]

Maybe an admin can ****-out the word "SERO"? I know just reading it makes me say a different four-letter word now and I can't be alone.

[NM08SRT8]

Maybe an admin can ****-out the word "SERO"? I know just reading it makes me say a different four-letter word now and I can't be alone.
lmao, I totally agree man hahaha.

[logamus]

well if the pre auto updates via the web like they claim i would think some sort of unlimited vision would be required for this thing. and honestly, why would you want this phone and not have unlimited web and messaging?

[htowngator]

Yeah but it doesn't say anything in your contract that you can keep your SERO plan when Sprint requires phones to have SEP plans either, and you want one. Think Sprint is going to change the rules just for you? lol, uh NOT

Listen champ, I never said I had a right to keep it if I wanted a specific phone. I said it's a legit question for SERO users to ask, and you guys decide to meltdown because a lot of people are worried. Yes, you have to pay to get the good stuff, but I think people are fed up with poor service for a higher cost (as it is with all cell phone companies). In the latest reviews for cellular companies in Consumer Reports, Sprint was nearly dead last in every major city in the USA (vs. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile). Here in Houston after Ike, they were terrible for weeks while Verizon people had full signal no problem.

I'm sure you'll say I should switch to Verizon then, and I would if the plan didn't cost nearly $60/month more than I'm paying now. However, if they make me drop SERO then that price difference goes down dramatically and I'd definitely consider opting out. Let's be clear -- every major carrier will have good and bad spots of coverage. Sprint seems to be worse most of the time, and they have been getting their butts handed to them by AT&T and Verizon lately. The SEP's are good only if you want to pay for the $99 plan, but otherwise the reduced minutes versions are a wash in cost by comparison.

Anyway, rant over, but I see no reason with SERO users that are worried about losing a good thing. Sorry that you disagree.

[udratherbme]

The other thread closed w/ the craziness of a 2/15 release... hahaaaaa, the folks over @ TC seem to think that date is out of order, but they do make good points, if they have been developing this for a while FCC approval may have already been achieved... the pro was released today which is 3 days early

[ScrapMaker]

Anyway, rant over, but I see no reason with SERO users that are worried about losing a good thing. Sorry that you disagree.

They are at absolutely zero risk of losing their SERO accounts.

All they have to do is not buy a phone that requires a new plan.

Pretty simple...


Also, people always argue that [insert carrier here] doesn't work where I [insert location here] but there are millions of others who are perfectly happy.

The one major gripe I have with CDMA is that you cannot use data while on a phone call, like AT&T... other than that, I get MORE 3G coverage, and I only lose voice coverage in some weird valley-like areas in the boonies--and so do my friends with other carriers.

One of these days, those SERO plans are all going to expire--and I'd love to see where all these "loyal" customers go. -- I know some, like you, aren't saying that you are loyal, but there are quite a few that have been here for a while, and claim that they 'deserve' SERO because of loyalty.

[pacha248]

Is this a SERO thread or a Palm Pre thread?

[ScrapMaker]

Is this a SERO thread or a Palm Pre thread?

I guess until they release pricing, it's a SERO thread ;)

In all seriousness, we might not EVER hear pricing... hell, they just release the Treo Pro, and no one even knew it was happening... well, not officially...

[NM08SRT8]

I guess until they release pricing, it's a SERO thread ;)

In all seriousness, we might not EVER hear pricing... hell, they just release the Treo Pro, and no one even knew it was happening... well, not officially...
It was released, but for some reason, it got pulled from their site so IDK but that (Treo Pro) is $249 On contract, $549 off contract, which will more than likely drop when the Pre comes out? IDK, maybe not.

[ScrapMaker]

It was released, but for some reason, it got pulled from their site so IDK but that (Treo Pro) is $249 On contract, $549 off contract, which will more than likely drop when the Pre comes out? IDK, maybe not.

I think people are smoking crack if they thing the Pre will be $199/$399 when it comes out... if the Treo Pro is more expensive....

hrm

[yabo]

I think people are smoking crack if they thing the Pre will be $199/$399 when it comes out... if the Treo Pro is more expensive....

hrm

Not quite... You're comparing a phone that is targeting a specific user base (WM users) to a phone that will have a wholly different user base. This will be a net device with media capabilities in the beginning, where the WM devices are more for the business professional.

Business professionals are good, but, it's the masses that will buy the Pre in bulk and bring Palm/Sprint out of their 3rd place (respectively) status and into a better standing. A little subsidy goes a long way to bring companies out of the red.

[NM08SRT8]

Not quite... You're comparing a phone that is targeting a specific user base (WM users) to a phone that will have a wholly different user base. This will be a net device with media capabilities in the beginning, where the WM devices are more for the business professional.

Business professionals are good, but, it's the masses that will buy the Pre in bulk and bring Palm/Sprint out of their 3rd place (respectively) status and into a better standing. A little subsidy goes a long way to bring companies out of the red.
Yep, also not to mention, it will be priced competitively to go up against Android, iPhone, and maybe a few other touch screen devices.

[udratherbme]

Not quite... You're comparing a phone that is targeting a specific user base (WM users) to a phone that will have a wholly different user base. This will be a net device with media capabilities in the beginning, where the WM devices are more for the business professional.

Business professionals are good, but, it's the masses that will buy the Pre in bulk and bring Palm/Sprint out of their 3rd place (respectively) status and into a better standing. A little subsidy goes a long way to bring companies out of the red.

That is essentially the way it is, look @ the pre and the pro as a computer w/ Windows vs. Linux or ubuntu... the later is much cheaper b/c it is an open source product that relies on its users for feedback and app production

[Awake]

If Palm is targeting the iphone/G1 customer I can see them pricing the Pre at $199 or less, if Palm is targeting the Business customer then I can see the Pre priced over $199. My guess is that Palm is going after both, on one hand the Pre will have the media capabilities of the iphone and the business functions of a Winmo and Blackberry device and then some.

[yabo]

If Palm is targeting the iphone/G1 customer I can see them pricing the Pre at $199 or less, if Palm is targeting the Business customer then I can see the Pre priced over $199. My guess is that Palm is going after both, on one hand the Pre will have the media capabilities of the iphone and the business functions of a Winmo and Blackberry device and then some.

It'll definitely be both, but, I think they'll have it like the Instinct that the fact that it can help with business apps will be more of an afterthought to the typical Pre buyer. Myself? If it does PDF/XLS/CSV files I'll be a happy camper.

[NM08SRT8]

If Palm is targeting the iphone/G1 customer I can see them pricing the Pre at $199 or less, if Palm is targeting the Business customer then I can see the Pre priced over $199. My guess is that Palm is going after both, on one hand the Pre will have the media capabilities of the iphone and the business functions of a Winmo and Blackberry device and then some.
And the Open Source like Android. So hopefully the Pre will be what we can call "a all in one" device

[Awake]

It'll definitely be both, but, I think they'll have it like the Instinct that the fact that it can help with business apps will be more of an afterthought to the typical Pre buyer. Myself? If it does PDF/XLS/CSV files I'll be a happy camper.

Well you better start planning for a camping trip, DataViz is one of the Palm partners, they are the developers of Documents-to-go. That application will be native on the Pre.

[NM08SRT8]

It'll definitely be both, but, I think they'll have it like the Instinct that the fact that it can help with business apps will be more of an afterthought to the typical Pre buyer. Myself? If it does PDF/XLS/CSV files I'll be a happy camper.
It's already getting that Doc's whatever support that prior Palm's have.. DocsEz or something, idk what it's called

[yabo]

Well you better start planning for a camping trip, DataViz is one of the Palm partners, they are the developers of Documents-to-go. That application will be native on the Pre.

Pfft.. I'm not camping. =) I WILL, however, patiently wait in the Starbucks across the hall from the Sprint store in downtown Chicago the day the Pre comes out until the store opens then run like a crazed fan into the Sprint store to buy one.

[Awake]

And the Open Source like Android. So hopefully the Pre will be what we can call "a all in one" device

it absolutely will be THEE all in one device, Palm developed the Pre with the idea the user will have a desktop like experience. OH!! Did I mention it comes with a phone?!!

[Awake]

Pfft.. I'm not camping. =) I WILL, however, patiently wait in the Starbucks across the hall from the Sprint store in downtown Chicago the day the Pre comes out until the store opens then run like a crazed fan into the Sprint store to buy one.

Something just dawned on me... I just realized that every Sprint store in my area is next to a Starbucks, coincidence??

[jschu22]

it absolutely will be THEE all in one device, Palm developed the Pre with the idea the user will have a desktop like experience. OH!! Did I mention it comes with a phone?!!

Did I sleep through the release of this phone? Sure sounds like it's already a huge success.

[jschu22]

Pfft.. I'm not camping. =) I WILL, however, patiently wait in the Starbucks across the hall from the Sprint store in downtown Chicago the day the Pre comes out until the store opens then run like a crazed fan into the Sprint store to buy one.

You may want to camp. If its anything like the Instinct release date, lines will be very common.

[Awake]

Did I sleep through the release of this phone? Sure sounds like it's already a huge success.

Where have you been? We've had ours for months now!! :hee:

But seriously, Palm and Sprint have no choice but to have thee absolute device, they cannot afford ANY missteps. The Pre has be to mobile phone world what a very graceful ballet dancer is to ballet. Soft/Smooth operation and slickness. I believe Sprint and Palm will pull it off.

[jschu22]

Where have you been? We've had ours for months now!! :hee:

But seriously, Palm and Sprint have no choice but to have thee absolute device, they cannot afford ANY missteps. The Pre has be to mobile phone world what a very graceful ballet dancer is to ballet. Soft/Smooth operation and slickness. I believe Sprint and Palm will pull it off.

All jokes aside I do hope you are correct. I have owned every Palm OS Treo on Sprint and want them to have a big success with the Pre. I'm not ready to give them the crown yet, but it doesnt mean I'm not pulling for them.

[ScrapMaker]

Not quite... You're comparing a phone that is targeting a specific user base (WM users) to a phone that will have a wholly different user base. This will be a net device with media capabilities in the beginning, where the WM devices are more for the business professional.

Business professionals are good, but, it's the masses that will buy the Pre in bulk and bring Palm/Sprint out of their 3rd place (respectively) status and into a better standing. A little subsidy goes a long way to bring companies out of the red.

A different user base? Perhaps, except the majority of WM users I have spoken to, and seen comment on forums, etc, are MORE than willing to switch to WebOS, as long as it delivers everything is promises, which is more than WM can offer.

Most people use WM because of Exchange. If the Pre does this well, then what reason do people have to stick with such an aging OS? I have a soft spot for WM, but they literally haven't changed the OS since 1997, since I had CE 2.1 running on my LG Phenom Ultra Handheld PC.

(Ironically, it ran faster too.)

As soon as WM7 is released, things will change, and I will probably head back to WM. All I really care about is Exchange, but the other stuff the Pre offers is just icing on the cake... A LOT of icing... seriously...

I imagine that over 75% of WM users would be perfectly happy with the Pre... assuming they get the better SDK, and ROMs, etc... which I don't see being too far-fetched--considering there are already rumors of a Pre-compatible Android release in the works... (not sure why you would want that--but to each their own.)

[TwoForBlake]

I think it will be like most top end smart phones when they first come out. $399.99 w/$100.00 rebate with a contract, and $599.99 without a contract.

[logamus]

I think it will be like most top end smart phones when they first come out. $399.99 w/$100.00 rebate with a contract, and $599.99 without a contract.

i dont see that. sprint saw what happened when the iphone price dropped to $199 and the pre is supposed to be battling with the iphone. its not that fair of a fight if you make people pay more. i wouldnt be surprised to see sprint even undercut the iphone just to make a point.

[sugarnova]

I think it will be like most top end smart phones when they first come out. $399.99 w/$100.00 rebate with a contract, and $599.99 without a contract.

I fear you may be right. I hope not, but still.

[TwoForBlake]

i dont see that. sprint saw what happened when the iphone price dropped to $199 and the pre is supposed to be battling with the iphone. its not that fair of a fight if you make people pay more. i wouldnt be surprised to see sprint even undercut the iphone just to make a point.

I see your point, but look at the HTC Touch Pro, the Treo 800w and even the HTC Diamond that have all been recent releases by Sprint. They are exepnsive as ****.

I think we can compromise that since the Iphone is $199.99 with a contract that the Palm Pre which is supposed to be a better product will be one of the following.

$249.99 with no rebate.
$299.99 with a $100.00 rebate.
$349.99 with a $100.00 rebate.

My final answer is $299.99 with a $100.00 rebate.

From Wiki.com "Pricing. Initial pricing details have not yet been revealed. However, when Palm's CEO Ed Colligan was asked whether the Palm Pre would cost significantly less than the U.S. $200 of the iPhone in order to gain market share, his reply was "Why would we do that when we have a significantly better product?"

[logamus]

I see your point, but look at the HTC Touch Pro, the Treo 800w and even the HTC Diamond that have all been recent releases by Sprint. They are exepnsive as ****.

I think we can compromise that since the Iphone is $199.99 with a contract that the Palm Pre which is supposed to be a better product will be one of the following.

$249.99 with no rebate.
$299.99 with a $100.00 rebate.
$349.99 with a $100.00 rebate.

My final answer is $299.99 with a $100.00 rebate.

From Wiki.com "Pricing. Initial pricing details have not yet been revealed. However, when Palm's CEO Ed Colligan was asked whether the Palm Pre would cost significantly less than the U.S. $200 of the iPhone in order to gain market share, his reply was "Why would we do that when we have a significantly better product?"

well i understand what you are saying, and as much as htc and palm love their current top of the line models nobody on earth is putting them up against the iphone. they may in fact be better than an iphone but that is not their claim. the pre on the other hand has been compared to the iphone and from the get go that it will go head to head with the it and not be afraid. i just cant see sprint telling people "trust us, its better than the iphone and spending an extra $100 will be well worth it". even if that is true, they wont sell nearly as many as they hope to. i think they have a real winner here and i hope they dont price it so higher than people will be willing to pay.

[udratherbme]

I say they are crazy if they are goin to try to win the iphone crowd and price it out of bounds, but get this Iphone 199 no rebate, how about that one... Spring has so many different catches to their rebates, like my last rebate for them was denied b/c when i bout my phone the rebate period ended the next week, and i had 30 days to check out the product...

[TwoForBlake]

I say they are crazy if they are goin to try to win the iphone crowd and price it out of bounds, but get this Iphone 199 no rebate, how about that one... Spring has so many different catches to their rebates, like my last rebate for them was denied b/c when i bout my phone the rebate period ended the next week, and i had 30 days to check out the product...

The Iphone has been out for years. Of course the price is going to go down. The pre is a brand new product, and people want the cutting edge electronics. Take your $200 and get an Iphone if you want. You are going to have to pay more for the Pre, and I bet you will.

[ScrapMaker]

I personally don't think they are trying to grab the iPhone crowd. They do not need to make it $199 to achieve their results.

From what I have seen, people who want the Pre probably wouldn't consider the iPhone anyways...otherwise they would already be locked into that sneakyass plan over at AT&T...

I think $299/$579 would be very realistic... just like the Touch Pro.

[dfine1966]

This is Palm's last chance. If the Pre bombs than Palm is out of business. They need to flood the market with these things. The only way they will flood the market is a lower price point. I could easily see this product retail at $299 and get a $150 rebate from Sprint. No matter how you look at it, the price with any type of rebate needs to be at least $50 cheaper than the iPhone to get people to switch the Pre. The price most likely will be $149 after rebate. Even if the product is better than the iPhone, most people go for familiarity of a company and product. Cheap sells, especially in this economy. Once people realize how good the Pre and WebOS are, the next version can be more expensive.

That is just my opinion.

[ScrapMaker]

This is Palm's last chance. If the Pre bombs than Palm is out of business. They need to flood the market with these things. The only way they will flood the market is a lower price point. I could easily see this product retail at $299 and get a $150 rebate from Sprint. No matter how you look at it, the price with any type of rebate needs to be at least $50 cheaper than the iPhone to get people to switch the Pre. The price most likely will be $149 after rebate. Even if the product is better than the iPhone, most people go for familiarity of a company and product. Cheap sells, especially in this economy. Once people realize how good the Pre and WebOS are, the next version can be more expensive.

That is just my opinion.

I disagree that Palm has to compete with the iPhone pricing. Most iPhone users will not "switch." First off, they are loyal, and secondly, why would they break their contracts? Sprint would have to offer to pay out contracts, or whatever--like the good ol' days when carriers used to do stuff like that.

Yes, "cheap" sells, but so does "innovative," or "ground-breaking," which is exactly what Palm has here--assuming it does what it can.

I think Sprint/Palm could easily sell for more than the iPhone, and still reach their target consumers.

I know I will get it no matter what--even if it's $499 subsidized. I don't want an iPhone, and I don't want AT&T.

[udratherbme]

The Iphone has been out for years. Of course the price is going to go down. The pre is a brand new product, and people want the cutting edge electronics. Take your $200 and get an Iphone if you want. You are going to have to pay more for the Pre, and I bet you will.

Never said that I was a Iphanboy, Apple Fan or AT&T Fan... I personally don't like the thing, friends, coworkers, and even family have them, i have played w/ the thing and really don't like it.... There are a lot of Iphone holders that are willing to jump ship just to have cutting edge tech, and Palm knows that... there are a lot of Palm old heads that I know that are carrying an Iphone just b/c it was hot @ the time, and they kicking themselves in the arse for paying the money for it when it first hit the market and didn't have the functionality or the capability that they needed or desired to stop carrying more than 1 device w/o hassles or spending more time syncing and searching for solutions that aided in that

[htowngator]

If they price this thing in the Touch price range that they will lose out on a lot of people.

The Touch is also a WM device and those tend to be more expensive. Perhaps b/c of the cost of licensing form MS?

[yabo]

If they price this thing in the Touch price range that they will lose out on a lot of people.

The Touch is also a WM device and those tend to be more expensive. Perhaps b/c of the cost of licensing form MS?

That's why all windows things cost more =) Look at prebuilt computers with Linux installed compared to identical windows machines. MS = Expensive.

Ironic reference, considering we're literally comparing Windows to Linux, too!

[ilovetrains]

Just to add to the rumor mill, but I heard that the guys who are in charge of setting up the replacement network were told mid march release.

[Awake]

The iphone is a device that primarily wowed people, with media functions and a pretty UI. Once you get past those then what?! The iphone does not have the business functions of a Blackberry or Winmo device. That is where the Pre comes in, you pretty much get everything in one device, kinda like one stop shopping. The Pre will do extremely well in the business area where the iphone is still trying to gain those customers. That being said I can see Palm/Sprint pricing the Pre in the $250 range, of course after rebates and credits.

[NM08SRT8]

The Iphone has been out for years. Of course the price is going to go down. The pre is a brand new product, and people want the cutting edge electronics. Take your $200 and get an Iphone if you want. You are going to have to pay more for the Pre, and I bet you will.
And you got this concrete info.... how? And from where?

[Awake]

Did anyone receive this email from Palm:

Palm® Pre™ phone, CES Best in Show by CNET.
If you can not view this email, click here.


Cheers.

Some said it couldn’t be done. But last week at CES, the new Palm® Pre™ phone not only surprised, wowed and amazed the audience, it also took home Best in Show and People’s Voice awards from CNET. Even if you didn’t make it to Vegas, you can still see what all the excitement is about.

Watch the unveiling of Pre at CES or
check out reviews on the Palm blog.


Forward this email to a friend, or send this link1: www.palm.com/us/emails/pre/palm-ces.html

Use of this device requires providing a valid email address, mobile phone number, and related information for account set-up and activation. Unlimited usage data plan strongly recommended or additional data charges may apply. Within wireless coverage area only.

1 By forwarding this email, you are NOT subscribing your friend to any future messages from Palm. In addition, we will not share your friends information with any third parties. For more information, please read our Privacy Policy.

© 2009 Palm, Inc. All rights reserved. Palm and Pre are among the trademarks or registered trademarks owned by or licensed to Palm, Inc. All other brand and product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify products or services of, their respective owners. All screen images simulated.

To unsubscribe, reply to this message, with "unsubscribe" as the subject line of the message.

[udratherbme]

The iphone is a device that primarily wowed people, with media functions and a pretty UI. Once you get past those then what?! The iphone does not have the business functions of a Blackberry or Winmo device. That is where the Pre comes in, you pretty much get everything in one device, kinda like one stop shopping. The Pre will do extremely well in the business area where the iphone is still trying to gain those customers. That being said I can see Palm/Sprint pricing the Pre in the $250 range, of course after rebates and credits.

That is what I would see as well, but like htowngator said, if they price it in the range of the Touch then they probably will lose the WinMo faithful.

[TwoForBlake]

And you got this concrete info.... how? And from where?

Relax Hemi guy. Nobody has "concrete info" at this time. We are all trying to guess what it costs. If you want concrete info then wait for palm.com or sprint.com to tell you. From what ive seen so far this board is only here say and he said she said.

[NM08SRT8]

Relax Hemi guy. Nobody has "concrete info" at this time. We are all trying to guess what it costs. If you want concrete info then wait for palm.com or sprint.com to tell you. From what ive seen so far this board is only here say and he said she said.
Yeah but a lot of you people say, "I know...", Sounds like facts to me, "TwoForBlake Guy"

[Fooster7]

Here's an update from PreCentral.net...

Link (http://www.precentral.net/best-buy-still-talks-sell-pre-not-final-yet)

We've already reported that outside of Sprint stores, rumor has it that Best Buy will be the exclusive retailer for the Palm Pre in the US. Joe just sent in a tip that a mobile exec at Best Buy has confirmed that they're "holding talks to sell Palm's Pre Smartphone" but they're "not yet ready to announce a retail deal." As you might expect, Sprint is also in on the negotiations as well.

Typically we're just sort of let this thing ride, but the fact that all three players here are still engaged in negotiations means that, well, as we said before, they're intending on making the Pre launch as big as humanly possible. Perhaps we might get more than just Sprint marketing dollars behind it, perhaps Best Buy will be pushing it as well?

-----------------------------------------------------------------

This is all speculation, but based on this story, I'm gonna read between the lines and say the Pre probably won't be released on the rumored Feb. 15.

If Best Buy is still in negotiations for exclusive retail rights, I don't think Sprint would release the phone before negotiations with Best Buy are complete. When negotiations are finally complete (who knows when), both Sprint/Palm/Best Buy still have to prepare a ton of marketing for the phone, and give it enough time to generate consumer interest. Three weeks (roughly) doesn't seem like enough time to set everything in motion. I really hate to say it, but the Feb. 15 release date is looking like it won't happen.

I also hope Sprint/Palm/Best Buy will prove me wrong. :hee:

[Awake]

Good news, several Sprint stores in my area have received brochures and literature on the Pre today. The store advocate said they should get a demo and live model within weeks, they expect the Pre will launch in 3 weeks!

[touchandcentro]

Can anyone verify this claim? I do not intend any offense to the poster, I'm just skeptical of claims like this with no verification.

[bleuiz]

At Best Buy tonight and I asked about the Pre....
They received a notice that it will be available on February 15 for about $150-$200 for an upgrade or new contract....
So here is my question.....I bought and got a new contract in September for a Sprint Instinct (boo...hiss.....) I truly hate this phone......now I find out that I will have to pay full price for this phone (maybe $400?)? Is there a way around it?:td::deal:

[Awake]

I posted this in a different thread, has anyone received this email today?:

Palm® Pre™ phone, CES Best in Show by CNET.
If you can not view this email, click here.


Cheers.

Some said it couldn’t be done. But last week at CES, the new Palm® Pre™ phone not only surprised, wowed and amazed the audience, it also took home Best in Show and People’s Voice awards from CNET. Even if you didn’t make it to Vegas, you can still see what all the excitement is about.

Watch the unveiling of Pre at CES or
check out reviews on the Palm blog.


Forward this email to a friend, or send this link1: www.palm.com/us/emails/pre/palm-ces.html

Use of this device requires providing a valid email address, mobile phone number, and related information for account set-up and activation. Unlimited usage data plan strongly recommended or additional data charges may apply. Within wireless coverage area only.

1 By forwarding this email, you are NOT subscribing your friend to any future messages from Palm. In addition, we will not share your friends information with any third parties. For more information, please read our Privacy Policy.

© 2009 Palm, Inc. All rights reserved. Palm and Pre are among the trademarks or registered trademarks owned by or licensed to Palm, Inc. All other brand and product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify products or services of, their respective owners. All screen images simulated.

To unsubscribe, reply to this message, with "unsubscribe" as the subject line

[bleuiz]

-----------------------------------------------------------------

This is all speculation, but based on this story, I'm gonna read between the lines and say the Pre probably won't be released on the rumored Feb. 15.

If Best Buy is still in negotiations for exclusive retail rights, I don't think Sprint would release the phone before negotiations with Best Buy are complete. When negotiations are finally complete (who knows when), both Sprint/Palm/Best Buy still have to prepare a ton of marketing for the phone, and give it enough time to generate consumer interest. Three weeks (roughly) doesn't seem like enough time to set everything in motion. I really hate to say it, but the Feb. 15 release date is looking like it won't happen.

I also hope Sprint/Palm/Best Buy will prove me wrong. :hee:

I was at Best Buy tonight and questioned them about the Pre....they have a notice that they will have it on February 15........for about $150-$200....
Now, my question......I got a new contract in September for my new Instinct (boo...hiss.....) Therefore I can't upgrade and I can't drop my contract.....how do I get the lower price without paying a dropped contract fee? (and losing my number)....or do I end up paying the full price?

[Awake]

Can anyone verify this claim? I do not intend any offense to the poster, I'm just skeptical of claims like this with no verification.

No offense taken, try calling around in your area you may or may not get this info.

[DougJoJon]

Stores have been receiving promo materials for the Palm Treo Pro....Not the Pre....The Treo pro launches in a few weeks....The Pro will be closer to summer time

Hope this clears things up

[SL-10]

Here's an update from PreCentral.net...

Link (http://www.precentral.net/best-buy-still-talks-sell-pre-not-final-yet)

We've already reported that outside of Sprint stores, rumor has it that Best Buy will be the exclusive retailer for the Palm Pre in the US. Joe just sent in a tip that a mobile exec at Best Buy has confirmed that they're "holding talks to sell Palm's Pre Smartphone" but they're "not yet ready to announce a retail deal." As you might expect, Sprint is also in on the negotiations as well.

Typically we're just sort of let this thing ride, but the fact that all three players here are still engaged in negotiations means that, well, as we said before, they're intending on making the Pre launch as big as humanly possible. Perhaps we might get more than just Sprint marketing dollars behind it, perhaps Best Buy will be pushing it as well?

-----------------------------------------------------------------

This is all speculation, but based on this story, I'm gonna read between the lines and say the Pre probably won't be released on the rumored Feb. 15.

If Best Buy is still in negotiations for exclusive retail rights, I don't think Sprint would release the phone before negotiations with Best Buy are complete. When negotiations are finally complete (who knows when), both Sprint/Palm/Best Buy still have to prepare a ton of marketing for the phone, and give it enough time to generate consumer interest. Three weeks (roughly) doesn't seem like enough time to set everything in motion. I really hate to say it, but the Feb. 15 release date is looking like it won't happen.

I also hope Sprint/Palm/Best Buy will prove me wrong. :hee:

Here is more to the story.

Sprint in Talks With Best Buy Mobile to Sell Palm Pre

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601205&sid=aUmjJiAD3.Ys&refer=consumer

By Amy Thomson

Jan. 23 (Bloomberg) -- Sprint Nextel Corp., the money-losing U.S. wireless carrier, is in talks with Best Buy Co. to sell Palm Inc.’s Pre once the phone makes its debut this year, potentially putting the device in more than 1,000 stores.

Best Buy Mobile unit President Shawn Score said the parties aren’t ready yet to announce an agreement about the Pre, which works exclusively with Sprint service in the U.S. He declined to comment on whether Best Buy would be the sole retailer for the Pre, introduced at the Consumer Electronics show this month.

Best Buy Mobile has become the biggest source of new subscribers for U.S. carriers, Score said. Sprint is striving to win back customers after losing at least 3 million last year, hurt by slumping consumer spending and complaints about its network. Palm also lost users as they migrated away from older models such as the Centro and the Treo.

“I’m really excited that they’re back in the game,” Score said of Palm in an interview. “We’re working with Sprint on that, but no official announcement as of yet.”

Palm plans to introduce the Pre, which uses its new WebOS operating software, in the first half of 2009. Sprint spokeswoman Michelle Mermelstein said the company hasn’t confirmed any decisions about its retail partners and declined to give further details on pricing or the date of the release. Palm spokeswoman Leslie Letts didn’t immediately return a call seeking comment.

Quarterly Results

Sprint, which lost more than $1 billion in the first three quarters of 2008, plans to report fourth-quarter results next month. The Overland Park, Kansas-based carrier trails Verizon Wireless and AT&T Inc. in total subscribers.

Best Buy, based in Richfield, Minnesota, rose 41 cents to $27.65 at 4 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. Sprint climbed 8 cents to $2.46, while Palm dropped 28 cents to $7.32 on the Nasdaq Stock Market.

Sunnyvale, California-based Palm’s new software lets users combine multiple e-mail and messaging accounts, and shuffle through applications like a deck of cards, removing the need to close one program before opening another. The touch-screen device also has a keyboard and can be charged cordlessly.

Best Buy handled advance orders for the BlackBerry Storm last year with Verizon Wireless, the largest U.S. mobile-phone company. Best Buy also sells the iPhone 3G, Sprint’s Instinct and AT&T’s BlackBerry Bold.

[Awake]

Stores have been receiving promo materials for the Palm Treo Pro....Not the Pre....The Treo pro launches in a few weeks....The Pro will be closer to summer time

Hope this clears things up

I spoke with 3 different reps from 2 stores, Sprint can't have the same ilinformed rep working both places. I even asked if they meant to Pro and they said no!

On a side note here is a pic of the spare battery and charger:

[bleuiz]

Stores have been receiving promo materials for the Palm Treo Pro....Not the Pre....The Treo pro launches in a few weeks....The Pro will be closer to summer time

Hope this clears things up

I was at BB last night....they have a notice of the Pre coming out on Februrary 15.......

[Fooster7]

I was at BB last night....they have a notice of the Pre coming out on Februrary 15.......

Not questioning the validity of your claim, but I'm curious as to how you know? Did they have displays up? That would be awesome!

BTW, congrats, Awake, you were quoted as a source in a precentral.net story to back up the Feb. 15th release date...

[bleuiz]

Not questioning the validity of your claim, but I'm curious as to how you know? Did they have displays up? That would be awesome!

BTW, congrats, Awake, you were quoted as a source in a precentral.net story to back up the Feb. 15th release date...

My husband was looking at pay as you go phones....and I asked the salesman.....he showed me the notice that they had....
My son's friend also works at BB Mobile (she was not working yesterday)....she is at work today and told me she would check.....

[thedonkeyslayer]

I was at BB last night....they have a notice of the Pre coming out on Februrary 15.......

I think you have the Pro & Pre mixed up...

http://www.boygeniusreport.com/2009/01/24/sprint-treo-pro-delayed-until-february-15th/

[sfhub]

Stores have been receiving promo materials for the Palm Treo Pro....Not the Pre....The Treo pro launches in a few weeks....The Pro will be closer to summer time

Hope this clears things up
I don't know whether they are or aren't receiving promo literature for the Pre, but some stores already have the Treo Pro at the store for the employees to get familiar with. I tried one briefly yesterday before the battery ran out.

[decypher44]

Wow. If this is true, then I give a lot of credit to both Palm and Sprint.

However, I hope they are not "rushing" this out to street. It would be best to make sure the product is solid. It would be very bad if they received massive amounts of complaints within a week of its release.

[Awake]

Not questioning the validity of your claim, but I'm curious as to how you know? Did they have displays up? That would be awesome!

BTW, congrats, Awake, you were quoted as a source in a precentral.net story to back up the Feb. 15th release date...

That's cool, maybe I should ask precentral.net for royalties, LOL! All kidding aside, I am going to call around to other stores in my area. My Sprint rep is not available for a week so I can't shake him upside down by the ankles. Should be Interesting to note that Palms website does say "coming soon."

http://www.palm.com/us/products/phones/pre/index.html

Soon is not 5 or 6 months away, it is, Immediately, instantly; Within a short time; quickly; Early!

[phrac]

The Treo Pro delayed until the 15th, I don't think we'll be seeing the Pre. THis has started circulating. Some sort of BB notice.

(found the picture here: http://gadgetblips.dailyradar.com/story/sprint_treo_pro_delayed_until_2_15_mobility_today/)

[laursifer]

At Best Buy tonight and I asked about the Pre....
They received a notice that it will be available on February 15 for about $150-$200 for an upgrade or new contract.

I believe (in agreement with some others in this thread) that Best Buy is confusing the Pre with the Pro. In my experience, they aren't a great source for phone information and often don't know jack about the phones they even currently sell. It wouldn't surprise me in the least for them to "confuse" the Pre with the Pro. It actually wouldn't surprise me at all if they haven't even heard of the Pre yet.

I bought and got a new contract in September for a Sprint Instinct ... I truly hate this phone ... now I find out that I will have to pay full price for this phone (maybe $400?)? Is there a way around it?

a) You have 30 days to return a phone if you are not satisfied with it. If you were that unhappy with the Instinct, you should have returned it.

b) Since you did not return the phone within the 30 days, you will have to pay full price for the Pre if you decide to get it. Without attempting to cheat Sprint, which some users would gladly suggest you do, there isn't a way around it. What you can do is contact eCare, tell them your situation and see what, if anything, they can do to make the purchase of a Pre a bit more affordable. You won't get anywhere near the 2-year upgrade price but you might get a small discount. The reason I suggest contacting Sprint via eCare is because I personally find them to be the most helpful of all avenues through which you can reach Sprint; in addition to that, since it's done via email, you have copies of the conversations you have with them in the event you need to provide proof some time in the future. I also suggest you not even bother with any of this until we have a concrete release date from Sprint themselves.

[FreddyC]

"Jonesing" for this phone notwithstanding, Palm and Sprint would be wise to get this phone out sooner than later. They've already played their hand, and waiting until June gives other phone manufacturers plenty of wiggle room to try and trump them. Time isn't on their side with this one.

[NM08SRT8]

"Jonesing" for this phone notwithstanding, Palm and Sprint would be wise to get this phone out sooner than later. They've already played their hand, and waiting until June gives other phone manufacturers plenty of wiggle room to try and trump them. Time isn't on their side with this one.
Sorry but I gotta say this.

"Sprint would be wise to get this out sooner than later."?

Um, why? You know what will happen if they get this out sooner before they fully test it? People of Sprint and SprintUsers will cry, bitc# and complain because of all the bugs, saying "Sprint, ***reak? why didn't you work out all the bugs before you launched this phone..?", OR if they launch it later, comments like this are made, bashing Sprint saying it was a fail move to launch it later..

Either way, with the way a lot of you people are (not directing this towards you in general), Sprint looses either way.. There is no making you people happy

[Fooster7]

At Best Buy tonight and I asked about the Pre....
They received a notice that it will be available on February 15 for about $150-$200 for an upgrade or new contract....
So here is my question.....I bought and got a new contract in September for a Sprint Instinct (boo...hiss.....) I truly hate this phone......now I find out that I will have to pay full price for this phone (maybe $400?)? Is there a way around it?:td::deal:

One other thing you might consider, aside from Laursifer' recommendation, is just sell the Instinct and whatever accessories for it, to help offset some of the cost of buying the Pre at full price. I believe most Instincts are going for $100-$200 on ebay. So IF the Pre comes out at $400 full retail price, you'll get a nice chunk of it paid for by selling the Instinct. Good luck in whatever you decide to do!

[Darkflame808]

One other thing you might consider, aside from Laursifer' recommendation, is just sell the Instinct and whatever accessories for it, to help offset some of the cost of buying the Pre at full price. I believe most Instincts are going for $100-$200 on ebay. So IF the Pre comes out at $400 full retail price, you'll get a nice chunk of it paid for by selling the Instinct. Good luck in whatever you decide to do!

it really depends on how sprint plays their cards. if the pre goes sep then the instinct holds its value. if the pre goes open, your instinct is a toilet freshner. on craigslist in honolulu the instinct is going for 50$. sep is a deal breaker for many who dont need unlimited everything. unlimited everything is a fashion or hard core/business market and the instinct didnt catch on as a fashion or hard core/business phone.

[d12a60n]

I hope the release for the Pre is sooner than summer time. I really wish it does come out the 15th of Feb as people have speculated but I doubt Sprint would launch 2 phones at the same time simultaneously - especially given that one has the new WebOS and the other is just another upgraded Treo with the older OS. I think as many folks here have stated - that BB has the Pre launch date confused with the Pro. So I'm not holding my breath as Feb 15 Pre launch date

[NM08SRT8]

I hope the release for the Pre is sooner than summer time. I really wish it does come out the 15th of Feb as people have speculated but I doubt Sprint would launch 2 phones at the same time simultaneously - especially given that one has the new WebOS and the other is just another upgraded Treo with the older OS. I think as many folks here have stated - that BB has the Pre launch date confused with the Pro. So I'm not holding my breath as Feb 15 Pre launch date
They've launched 3 at the same time before, right? Lotus, Rant and Highnote

[FreddyC]

Sorry but I gotta say this.

"Sprint would be wise to get this out sooner than later."?

Um, why? You know what will happen if they get this out sooner before they fully test it? People of Sprint and SprintUsers will cry, bitc# and complain because of all the bugs, saying "Sprint, ***reak? why didn't you work out all the bugs before you launched this phone..?", OR if they launch it later, comments like this are made, bashing Sprint saying it was a fail move to launch it later..

Either way, with the way a lot of you people are (not directing this towards you in general), Sprint looses either way.. There is no making you people happy


We're assuming the Pre isn't further along than we know. I agree, if they release a half-baked OS, there's going to be problems. But by the same token, they're giving others the opportunity to one-up them. Granted, they're probably all planning to do so in the first place, but the sooner it's out, the more hands it gets in, the stronger the market share, not bumping into the G2 or whatever else Apple is up to, etc. But I fully agree with you about them not releasing a half-***** OS. Either way this thing has my wife's and my undivided attention.

I'm not seeing 2/15 being the release date, but that would be undeniably cool. They've kept this thing pretty under wraps, so I guess it isn't impossible, but I really don't see it being likely. How sweet would that be, using Apple's MO of announcing something and then shortly thereafter releasing it?

[jschu22]

Unless I've missed something (I did a search in this thread) but there has only been one mention of the FCC here. Granted I have not been on 24/7 Pre-watch like many have been, but I havent heard a thing about an approval. It doesnt take months to release following approval but it's not like they submit it on a Friday and it's in the stores on Monday.

[bleuiz]

I believe (in agreement with some others in this thread) that Best Buy is confusing the Pre with the Pro. In my experience, they aren't a great source for phone information and often don't know jack about the phones they even currently sell. It wouldn't surprise me in the least for them to "confuse" the Pre with the Pro. It actually wouldn't surprise me at all if they haven't even heard of the Pre yet.



a) You have 30 days to return a phone if you are not satisfied with it. If you were that unhappy with the Instinct, you should have returned it.

.

Thank you....I knew about it, but didn't start to be unhappy until much later......the phone shuts off when I try to unlock it.....at times, when I hit speed dial, the phone switches the speed dial person with the person on contact list in the same position........the calendar is limited as to the amount of entries or events.....this was discovered until recently......

[d12a60n]

They've launched 3 at the same time before, right? Lotus, Rant and Highnote

Yeah but these 3 didn't have different versions of the same OS...my point was launching 2 phones simultaneously with one having an upgraded operating system over the other. It's kind of like Microsoft launching Vista and Windows 7 at the same time - with everyone knowing how bloated Vista is and then introducing an improved version of it right next to it. I just don't think many people would go for Vista with the choice of Windows 7 right next to it. That was my point...sorry I made it so vague

[SxualChkL8]

Palm is trying to make a comeback and the Web-os is the way they are gonna do it. My belief is that the Treo Pro was developed and set to sell and then Palm had a breakthrough with the Web-os earlier than expected. Then with CES, the dominoes started falling into place. For Palm release both at the same time would make sense. Lets face it, if you were gonna get the Pro, it would be because you wanted WinMo not Web-os. The Pre is where the money is for Plam. People are still gonna buy the Centro and Pro, but the Pre is for the real Palm loyal fans.

[udratherbme]

Palm is trying to make a comeback and the Web-os is the way they are gonna do it. My belief is that the Treo Pro was developed and set to sell and then Palm had a breakthrough with the Web-os earlier than expected. Then with CES, the dominoes started falling into place. For Palm release both at the same time would make sense. Lets face it, if you were gonna get the Pro, it would be because you wanted WinMo not Web-os. The Pre is where the money is for Plam. People are still gonna buy the Centro and Pro, but the Pre is for the real Palm loyal fans.

That is a valid statement... In the pass I think Palm was in the business of releasing a (some #)P and (some #)W at or around the same time... the (some #)P phone would more or less be purchased by the Palm Lovers and vice versa.... but check this, this is just speculation on my part, b/c i made a post earlier about Sprint having to take time to take care of the Black and Yellow stuff..... But Palm could have every player on the block tied down w/ a confidentiality agreement, hence the sprint employees in training, the phone may be ready to go and the just holding off on all the goodies like release date and price to see what type of buzz they can generate....

Lets go back and think, both companies need a strong release and promotion, now if they had released the phone immediately after CES how many units would have been purchased, b/c of the skeptics, now you got everybody's attention and anticipation, that the phone can drop tomorrow and they will sell out, b/c of all the buzz being generated, for all we know they could be using all the facebook stuff, this forum stuff, the other forums and all the blogs for free advertisement, thats not conventional but just a thought

[NM08SRT8]

We're assuming the Pre isn't further along than we know. I agree, if they release a half-baked OS, there's going to be problems. But by the same token, they're giving others the opportunity to one-up them. Granted, they're probably all planning to do so in the first place, but the sooner it's out, the more hands it gets in, the stronger the market share, not bumping into the G2 or whatever else Apple is up to, etc. But I fully agree with you about them not releasing a half-***** OS. Either way this thing has my wife's and my undivided attention.

I'm not seeing 2/15 being the release date, but that would be undeniably cool. They've kept this thing pretty under wraps, so I guess it isn't impossible, but I really don't see it being likely. How sweet would that be, using Apple's MO of announcing something and then shortly thereafter releasing it?
They arent letting anyone get "one up" on them. The phone hasn't even been out for testing/reviewing by anyone else other than Palm. Even other manufactures and carriers haven't even had airtime with this phone yet. Others can't "one up" if they don't know what to one up on... For all we know, we saw only a tip of the ice berg here as to what the WebOS can offer its customers.

I don't understand why you all gotta be so critical about every single little thing.

[parazitu22]

I have been reading SU for a long time, and have been commenting for a little bit too. I have never seen the first release date rumor come true, so I'm not holding my breath for Feb 15. It would be nice, but that doesn't seem like enough time to get everything into place.

[yabo]

Unless I've missed something (I did a search in this thread) but there has only been one mention of the FCC here. Granted I have not been on 24/7 Pre-watch like many have been, but I havent heard a thing about an approval. It doesnt take months to release following approval but it's not like they submit it on a Friday and it's in the stores on Monday.

Exactly right... which is why I'm not holding my breath. I'm excited, yeah, and I will buy it day 1 no matter what, but, no FCC approval = no phone. Usually it's about 1 month from FCC approval to release. We're within 3 weeks of the supposed release (I really think it's just a delayed Pro release) and no hint of FCC filing, let alone acceptance. This, to me, says that it's going to be a bit.

If I don't see anything solid on FCC submittal/approval by the end of the week, I'm going to definitively call shenanigans on this whole 15th malarchy. It's just too tight of a squeeze unless Palm wants to go all PS2 on the market and give just enough to the masses to cause a wave of desire. Who knows? That could be a good promotional tool.

But, then again, having a 200-500 dollar phone that they "rushed" out the door has left me with a pretty bad taste in my mouth *cough*Instinct*cough*

[SxualChkL8]

The Treo Pro got its' FCC Approval on Jan 11 and was due out now, but got pushed back to Feb 15. That would have been 2 weeks from approval to customers, so in theory, the Pre still could launch on the 15th pending FCC approval.

[thedonkeyslayer]

Interesting turn in events; the Pro appears to be available at Best Buy:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9175689&type=product&id=1218045946404

I searched for in-store pick-up and it was available at numerous stores in the east valley (phoenix) area.

[jschu22]

The Treo Pro got its' FCC Approval on Jan 11 and was due out now, but got pushed back to Feb 15. That would have been 2 weeks from approval to customers, so in theory, the Pre still could launch on the 15th pending FCC approval.

I suppose you could be right but a couple of things to consider. First- you would have to have really believed the the Pro was in the starting blocks and ready to go (unless I've missed something this is questionable). Second- The Pro is not the huge jump in hardware/software that the Pre is. Those might not mean anything at all. Then again, they might hold a little water.

A thought I have is that IF the Pre could be released shortly after FCC approval, that would mean very little announcement of a release date. My opinion is that this is a horrible idea but not unlike the strategy that most mobile manufacturers/carriers follow. Instead of using the hype to their advantage this dissipates it. Stupid, but watch it happen.

[ScrapMaker]

I suppose you could be right but a couple of things to consider. First- you would have to have really believed the the Pro was in the starting blocks and ready to go (which I have my doubts on). Second- The Pro is not the huge jump in hardware/software that the Pre is. Those might not mean anything at all. Then again, they might hold a little water.

A thought I have is that IF the Pre could be released shortly after FCC approval, that would mean very little announcement of a release date. My opinion is that this is a horrible idea but not unlike the strategy that most mobile manufacturers/carriers follow. Instead of using the hype to their advantage this dissipates it. Stupid, but watch it happen.

I just hope Sprint gets some more revenue---and I think that entails getting this dang phone out sooner, rather than later...

I don't want to be FORCED to switch to AT&T and pay twice the price... for less service.

[FreddyC]

Hmmmm ... this could be a problem ...

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-10150436-37.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=Crave

[hhisc383]

humm...that could be a problem. what does this mean for palm?

[Vyruz Reaper]

humm...that could be a problem. what does this mean for palm?

what about all the stuff palm patented that the iphone ripped off? there is a list on treosentral. ill add another: ringer switch. Apple TOTALLY ripped palm off

[tbot]

One thing also to consider is that Palm has requested some sort of confidentiality w/ the FCC (which can be done, I believe apple did it w/ the iphone) and we won't see any type of approval due to that up until...say the day the phone is released.

There was lots of talk about the way Palm had kept secret webos for the amount of time that it did and even compared it to apple, so why not continue to keep secrets and let the buzz keep growing so that when it does launch it will be as big as possible.

With both sprint and palm hurting on the business side, this makes the most sense to me. They need to make this as big as possible and I think the secret keeping is probably a very good way to do it. I know that there's been a huge surge of pre discussions everywhere on the web to the point even SU was mentioned on a news site! With this kinda momentum building I would think that both companies would let this continue not much longer to make the release a bang.

Basically what I'm saying is that there could already be an FCC approval, its just been kept confidential on the request of Palm and we very well could see a release in the middle of February. Altho, with that being said, why didn't they say the first quarter of 2009, and not the first half like they did at CES?

[Awake]

Hmmmm ... this could be a problem ...

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-10150436-37.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=Crave

Not a problem, for starters this will be in the courts for years should Apple try their hand, Apple will try to say they invented the wheel. It's a matter of interpretation, there are many forms of multi-touch, Apple bought a company that makes "A" form of multi-touch. Cypress Semiconductor which has been making multi-touch screens for years designed the touch screen for the Pre.

http://palmwebosblog.com/tag/multi-touch/

No need to worry Palm is just fine.

[d12a60n]

Not a problem, for starters this will be in the courts for years should Apple try their hand, Apple will try to say they invented the wheel. It's a matter of interpretation, there are many forms of multi-touch, Apple bought a company that makes "A" form of multi-touch. Cypress Semiconductor which has been making multi-touch screens for years designed the touch screen for the Pre.

http://palmwebosblog.com/tag/multi-touch/

No need to worry Palm is just fine.

I agree completely. And like I posted elsewhere, it could be a battle between Microsoft's Surface and Apple as well:

http://www.microsoft.com/surface/product.html#section=The%20Product

[ScrapMaker]

I agree completely. And like I posted elsewhere, it could be a battle between Microsoft's Surface and Apple as well:

http://www.microsoft.com/surface/product.html#section=The%20Product

Which is far superior to anything Apple has 'inherited.'

[laravia18]

So far on both the Sprint website and the Palm website both say "Coming Soon". :td: So for me, who is very excited about this device coming out, (just in time for my contract renewal too) feels like there vague messages are more a stalling technique rather than a way to create suspense for this new device.

So with that said I think they should try to turn this into an opportunity to release a little bit more information about the product (price, more specs, actual release date) to give us some crumbs to feed off of. I am already assuming that this device has copy/paste (it better) so that will be good to mention that it is not like the other device that is being talk about a lot. Whether they like it or not, this is already being set to meet some kind of iphone expectation. They need to take this opportunity to squash that rumor or build on it. The last thing they want is for people to start drawing their own (negative) conclusions.

C'mon I need something. I feel like someone who is waiting for the stores to open on black friday.:1zhelp:

[laursifer]

Reminder: We have a thread for the Palm vs. Apple junk... so if you want to discuss that in detail, please do so in that thread (http://sprintusers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181349).

[Blitzed]

first time poster...long time lurker...

I talked to sprint a few months ago regarding upgrading my featureless 800w to a treo pro as others have done. I was told to call back mid January as the Treo Pro was being released then.

I called back today regarding upgrading to The Treo Pro and the rep told me it's not coming out until Feb 15th. According to reports I've recently read, the Treo Pro phone has already been released last week so it should have been available in their system. I asked to confirm that she was talking about the treo pro and not the Palm Pre. She said, oh, wait, the palm pre, yes, that's the one coming out on Feb 15th. I asked again for her to confirm not beliving this at all and she again did confirm that it was the Palm Pre and I was told to call back in Feb to get an upgrade to that phone....

Obviously I can't confirm this w/o calling back in but this is what I was just told. Maybe a dumb rep??????

[decypher44]

...

Obviously I can't confirm this w/o calling back in but this is what I was just told. Maybe a dumb rep??????

I wouldn't say "dumb". It's just that there are many reps, several of whom may not have all of their facts straight. There, that sounds better (I think!) :).

However, the rep could be right that it will be released 2/15. But, if so, they should have pushed it to the 13th in time for Valentine's Day.

My guess is April-May release.

[Blitzed]

I wouldn't say "dumb". It's just that there are many reps, several of whom may not have all of their facts straight. There, that sounds better (I think!) :).

However, the rep could be right that it will be released 2/15. But, if so, they should have pushed it to the 13th in time for Valentine's Day.

My guess is April-May release.

LOL...hence why I hate working in the corporate world...I just don't have the right words :)

[laravia18]

Reminder: We have a thread for the Palm vs. Apple junk... so if you want to discuss that in detail, please do so in that thread (http://sprintusers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181349).

I'm sorry! The thread is long so I didn't get a chance to read all of the details of the thread.

[ilovetrains]

just noticed 2/15 is a Sunday. Kind of strange to release on a Sunday.

[ManUtd7]

just noticed 2/15 is a Sunday. Kind of strange to release on a Sunday.

I believe the HTC Touch was launched on a Sunday via telesales and web, and then Monday in the stores.

Realize releasing earlier on the web or via telesales is less overhead per a unit (ETA: when sold).

[exi]

I believe the HTC Touch was launched on a Sunday via telesales and web, and then Monday in the stores.

Realize releasing earlier on the web or via telesales is less overhead per a unit (ETA: when sold).

Pretty sure that was also the story with the Diamond, at least with weekend availability via Telesales.

[Cur1ouS]

I think the rabbit hole gets deeper... I talked to a rep at a Best Buy Mobile store near Chicago over the weekend and was told the Pre comes out Feb 18th and will be priced at $200. He also said they had a 60-day exclusivity clause for sale of the phone. Later that day I went to a Sprint store and while chatting w/ the lady behind the counter asked about the Pre. She said a lot of people were asking and excited about it, including herself, and she was looking forward to the release. I asked if it was coming out in February, she said, "Yeah, the 18th." She also confirmed the $200 price point.

I dunno if its just gross misinformation or its the real deal, but all signs are pointing to a drop sometime mid-feb. Lets hope... :fingers:

[laravia18]

I think the rabbit hole gets deeper... I talked to a rep at a Best Buy Mobile store near Chicago over the weekend and was told the Pre comes out Feb 18th and will be priced at $200. He also said they had a 60-day exclusivity clause for sale of the phone. Later that day I went to a Sprint store and while chatting w/ the lady behind the counter asked about the Pre. She said a lot of people were asking and excited about it, including herself, and she was looking forward to the release. I asked if it was coming out in February, she said, "Yeah, the 18th." She also confirmed the $200 price point.

I dunno if its just gross misinformation or its the real deal, but all signs are pointing to a drop sometime mid-feb. Lets hope... :fingers:

I'm crossing my fingers for it to come out the 18th. That way I can see if I really, really want it and make it my decision in March. Looks like this phone will be an Aquarius baby. LOL!:cloud9:

$200 sounds sweet! I would love to get my hands on it for that price.

[vicn77]

As far as I know, there has not been a release date announced by Sprint. The Treo PRO which was to be released in January was delayed to February, although we did get our demo device in the store already. We were told not to let customers see it until further notice as a software upgrade was to be released on it by OTA.

I haven't seen any release dates for the PRE but I will check the Playbook tonight when it comes out. If I see any info about the PRE I'll be sure to let everyone know.

[patchs]

As far as I know, there has not been a release date announced by Sprint. The Treo PRO which was to be released in January was delayed to February, although we did get our demo device in the store already. We were told not to let customers see it until further notice as a software upgrade was to be released on it by OTA.

I haven't seen any release dates for the PRE but I will check the Playbook tonight when it comes out. If I see any info about the PRE I'll be sure to let everyone know.

We'll be eagerly awaiting.

[Exit24]

I used to work for a Sprint store. I just called my old boss and he said that the phone will be released sometime next month. When he gets the new Launch Deck (Pricing, specs, release date, etc.. for Sprint dealers) he will let me know the official date.

[webwevers]

I was in my local sprint store yesterday and they had the Treo PRO on display and were selling it. I was told that the release date for the Pre would be on Feb. 15th. I had to have my Blackberry repaired and they said they will call when they get them in. Here's to hoping for the 15th!

[patchs]

There is a lot of scuttlebutt saying the 15th.
I don't think they can get the Pre ready for release by then but with so many different sources saying the 15th, maybe there is a kernel of truth to it?

[ScrapMaker]

I was in my local sprint store yesterday and they had the Treo PRO on display and were selling it. I was told that the release date for the Pre would be on Feb. 15th. I had to have my Blackberry repaired and they said they will call when they get them in. Here's to hoping for the 15th!

hrm, I thought they not selling the TP yet?

[cwfluke]

There is a lot of scuttlebutt saying the 15th.
I don't think they can get the Pre ready for release by then but with so many different sources saying the 15th, maybe there is a kernel of truth to it?

I used to work for Sprint, my cousin works at a current Sprint store, my sister works at Best Buy, and I walk Dan Hesse's dog every Wednesday at lunch. All my sources said that the Pre came out yesterday. I already have one actually and I'm posting from it now. :laughing:

Honestly, until something more concrete than "I have a source" or "I spoke to a Sprint rep" or "Dude at Best Buy told me it wouldn't be until September" comes out - this thread is nothing but conjecture and kind of a waste. I'm just about as excited for the Pre as anyone - but reading through this whole thread makes me laugh. Not to be a **** or anything, but really.......nobody knows for sure so why post guesses?

[ScrapMaker]

I used to work for Sprint, my cousin works at a current Sprint store, my sister works at Best Buy, and I walk Dan Hesse's dog every Wednesday at lunch. All my sources said that the Pre came out yesterday. I already have one actually and I'm posting from it now. :laughing:

Honestly, until something more concrete than "I have a source" or "I spoke to a Sprint rep" or "Dude at Best Buy told me it wouldn't be until September" comes out - this thread is nothing but conjecture and kind of a waste. I'm just about as excited for the Pre as anyone - but reading through this whole thread makes me laugh. Not to be a **** or anything, but really.......nobody knows for sure so why post guesses?

Information like the stuff we are getting is common before releases. Certain people gain credibility when stuff releases based on their info. I'd say there's probably at least internal discussion about releasing 2/15/09, but Sprint can change it's mind anytime it wants--and has done that several times, even with concrete release dates...

I just hope it's sooner, rather than later...

[cwfluke]

Information like the stuff we are getting is common before releases. Certain people gain credibility when stuff releases based on their info. I'd say there's probably at least internal discussion about releasing 2/15/09, but Sprint can change it's mind anytime it wants--and has done that several times, even with concrete release dates...

I just hope it's sooner, rather than later...

Well - I hope everyone claiming the 15th gains a whole @#$% ton of credibility then!!! 3 weeks would be nice.

[cxsandoval]

I called sprint yesterday and the nice indian lady with a thick accent said feb. 15....I just called 2 min. ago and the guy told me the same thing.....hmmm....a pattern?? :-)

[cxsandoval]

I called sprint yesterday and the nice indian lady with a thick accent said feb. 15....I just called 2 min. ago and the guy told me the same thing.....hmmm....a pattern?? :-)

NEVERMIND! I asked him "the PRE not the PRO right?"...he confirmed the treo pro for 2/15......had no idea about the pre

[d12a60n]

Well - I hope everyone claiming the 15th gains a whole @#$% ton of credibility then!!! 3 weeks would be nice.

I agree - but it is much nicer reading these types of posts rather than the usual "First half of 2009". I mean that's worse than a cable guy's time frame! "Between 8am and 4pm"
:haha:

[tbot]

^^ lol about the cable guy

[ScrapMaker]

^^ lol about the cable guy

I'm a cable guy, and I'm getting a kick out of all your responses.

[d12a60n]

I'm a cable guy, and I'm getting a kick out of all your responses.

No offense to you! I love our cable guy! - it gives us a reason to take a day off work :) AND at least we know you're coming that same day - not sometime between January 1st and June 30 LOL

[ScrapMaker]

No offense to you! I love our cable guy! - it gives us a reason to take a day off work :) AND at least we know you're coming that same day - not sometime between January 1st and June 30 LOL

heh, I was just using that generic joke that has been floating around the internet...

I am [blank] and I am getting a kick out of all your responses...

Sometimes it's funny--other times people don't realize you are kidding...

[SmOve AL]

Below is my conversation with a Sprint Rep.

7:00:49 PM System System
Nina has joined this session!
7:00:49 PM System System
Connected with Nina
7:00:54 PM Agent Nina
Thank you for contacting Sprint. My name is Nina O. How may I assist you today?
7:01:11 PM Customer Alain
Hey nina
7:01:32 PM Customer Alain
i was wondering if you can tell me the release date for the Palm Pre phone
7:02:09 PM Agent Nina
I will be happy to assist you with this matter. One moment while I look for that information.
7:03:30 PM Agent Nina
It will be launched nationally on February 15.
7:03:36 PM Agent Nina
Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?
7:03:51 PM Customer Alain
what about the Treo Pro
7:05:35 PM Agent Nina
February 25, 2009.

[ScrapMaker]

Below is my conversation with a Sprint Rep.

7:00:49 PM System System
Nina has joined this session!
7:00:49 PM System System
Connected with Nina
7:00:54 PM Agent Nina
Thank you for contacting Sprint. My name is Nina O. How may I assist you today?
7:01:11 PM Customer Alain
Hey nina
7:01:32 PM Customer Alain
i was wondering if you can tell me the release date for the Palm Pre phone
7:02:09 PM Agent Nina
I will be happy to assist you with this matter. One moment while I look for that information.
7:03:30 PM Agent Nina
It will be launched nationally on February 15.
7:03:36 PM Agent Nina
Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?
7:03:51 PM Customer Alain
what about the Treo Pro
7:05:35 PM Agent Nina
February 25, 2009.

i especially dont believe ecare...

[d12a60n]

best. post. ever. Nice touch on the bold font as well LOL

[SmOve AL]

Lol

[laravia18]

Below is my conversation with a Sprint Rep.

7:00:49 PM System System
Nina has joined this session!
7:00:49 PM System System
Connected with Nina
7:00:54 PM Agent Nina
Thank you for contacting Sprint. My name is Nina O. How may I assist you today?
7:01:11 PM Customer Alain
Hey nina
7:01:32 PM Customer Alain
i was wondering if you can tell me the release date for the Palm Pre phone
7:02:09 PM Agent Nina
I will be happy to assist you with this matter. One moment while I look for that information.
7:03:30 PM Agent Nina
It will be launched nationally on February 15.
7:03:36 PM Agent Nina
Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?
7:03:51 PM Customer Alain
what about the Treo Pro
7:05:35 PM Agent Nina
February 25, 2009.
I love how you added the bolded font. It adds an amount of greatness to the post.:tu:

[aceattorney]

Wait and you didn't ask about pricing?

[the.traveller]

I hope the Pre will be released Feb 15th, hell I wish it is released Jan 29th. BUT I was just thinking of something random. Since the iphone1 was first released in June, Sprint couldnt' get people to "switch" to the pre unless they paid ETF. Higher ETF if they release the phone in Feb versus June. But this thought might just be mine and not crossed anyone's mind at Sprint.

OR they can release it in Feb and have the initial surge...then when sales start dropping in April May WHAMO iphone contracts up and people switch and sales increase again?

[exi]

I was just told the following in Sprint chat (mostly in confirmation to above posts):

Treo Pro
- Release date: 02/15/2009
- Retail Price: $549.99

Palm Pre
- Release Date: TBA
- Retail Price: TBA

[vicn77]

Checked the playbook last night.

Treo PRO to be released 2/15 w/soft launch on 2/12.

No mention of the Treo PRE. Tried to look up training on the Treo PRE, no where to be found. There is training on the Treo PRO w/6.1, there's also a launch of the 8350i w/no camera on 2/15 also if anyone cares.

I'll keep checking the Playbook every Wednesday and see if any new information comes out.

[ManUtd7]

Checked the playbook last night.

Treo PRO to be released 2/15 w/soft launch on 2/12.

No mention of the Treo PRE. Tried to look up training on the Treo PRE, no where to be found. There is training on the Treo PRO w/6.1, there's also a launch of the 8350i w/no camera on 2/15 also if anyone cares.

I'll keep checking the Playbook every Wednesday and see if any new information comes out.

Way to perpetuate people's perspective on Sprint store employees. It's Palm Pre or simply Pre, not Treo Pre. The Treo line is something totally different. Of course you wouldn't find anything under "Treo Pre" because there is no such device.

[ScrapMaker]

Way to perpetuate people's perspective on Sprint store employees. It's Palm Pre or simply Pre, not Treo Pre. The Treo line is something totally different. Of course you wouldn't find anything under "Treo Pre" because there is no such device.

Wow, he made a type-o... big freakin' deal...

Don't take out your SERO aggressions on everyone else... he's being pretty damn generous, I think, by gracing us with playbook information...

I think this falls in-line with what pretty much most of us were thinking... No Pre... but hey, you never know!

[cwfluke]

I think this falls in-line with what pretty much most of us were thinking... No Pre... but hey, you never know!

I want to go into a Sprint store and find a knowledgeable rep. I want him to say that the Pre is coming out on the 15th and to agree that if he is incorrect......then I get to punch him in the ear! Because if/when the 15th comes and goes without incident.....people are just going to be doing this again every month. Getting my hopes up saying "it'll be out in 2-3 weeks" then crushing them when the supposed date comes and goes. The fact that I know better than to believe people about unofficial release dates - but still hold out hope for some unknown reason, is beyond me. :icon_smil

[ManUtd7]

Wow, he made a type-o... big freakin' deal...

Don't take out your SERO aggressions on everyone else... he's being pretty damn generous, I think, by gracing us with playbook information...

I think this falls in-line with what pretty much most of us were thinking... No Pre... but hey, you never know!

There you go bring up SERO for no apparent reason. You're like a racist but with SERO. You use as an argument for anything even when has absolutely nothing to do with the topic at hand.

When others have come on here saying they have talked/chatted/emailed a Sprint Rep and they reported that the Pre would be out on 2/15, people have often asked, "Are you sure they were not confused with the Treo Pro? Sprint reps aren't too bright you know? I never trust them."
So when a Sprint store rep comes on and says they did a search for the Treo Pre, it falls right in line with what those people have said. Sprint people are confusing the Pre with the Treo Pro, only this person took it another way as calling it the Treo Pro.

Again what does SERO have to do with this?

[vicn77]

I'll state it in another way then.

Palm PRO still scheduled to be out Feb 15 with soft launch on the 12th.

No word on the PRE yet.

[ScrapMaker]

Again what does SERO have to do with this?

It's the only reason why I can see that you're being an impossible jerk to the guy trying to be helpful. Pent up rage because of your cellular plan.

[d12a60n]

Checked the playbook last night.

Treo PRO to be released 2/15 w/soft launch on 2/12.

No mention of the Treo PRE. Tried to look up training on the Treo PRE, no where to be found. There is training on the Treo PRO w/6.1, there's also a launch of the 8350i w/no camera on 2/15 also if anyone cares.

I'll keep checking the Playbook every Wednesday and see if any new information comes out.

Thanks man. We appreciate you checking the playbook for us. That really adds substance to all the speculation that goes on here. :headbang2

[ScrapMaker]

Thanks man. We appreciate you checking the playbook for us. That really adds substance to all the speculation that goes on here. :headbang2

Agreed! Even if it IS the news I don't want to hear ;)

[viper]

I got 2 leads on this PRE thing...

Talk to tech support one told me 2/15 and I ask the question is it the PRE or PRO she replied PRE.

Then I talk to a second tech support for treo, he told me mid JUNE. and it is NOT Necessary to change plans.

Hope this helps

[ScrapMaker]

Hope this helps

Haha, not in the slightest...

Really, people should stop harassing the Sprint CSRs... they clearly don't know... All that will happen is mis-information.

If someone here WORKS for Sprint--that's different... I find it slightly annoying when people keep calling/emailing CSRs/e-care and post their findings on the forums...

Now, that might not have been your only reason for calling, but if it was, you are just costing Sprint money ;)

[d12a60n]

I got 2 leads on this PRE thing...

Talk to tech support one told me 2/15 and I ask the question is it the PRE or PRO she replied PRE.

Then I talk to a second tech support for treo, he told me mid JUNE. and it is NOT Necessary to change plans.

Hope this helps

Did one of the support sound like they were at a call center in India? and the other one was from a call center in China? lol JK I mean I guess you never know.. with all the layoffs and possible outsourcing going on. :rolleyes:

[sel1965]

Thanks man. We appreciate you checking the playbook for us. That really adds substance to all the speculation that goes on here. :headbang2

It may not be under the Treo Pre but did you try looking under Palm Pre?

[ManUtd7]

It's the only reason why I can see that you're being an impossible jerk to the guy trying to be helpful. Pent up rage because of your cellular plan.

Hmmmm, the person came back, clarified, and found no reason to question my post.

Keep on justifying.

[ScrapMaker]

Hmmmm, the person came back, clarified, and found no reason to question my post.

Keep on justifying.

It's the way you responded to his original post... he's just trying to be helpful, but you had to bring him down and say basically "this is why we can't trust info from Sprint employees."

[aceattorney]

It may not be under the Treo Pre but did you try looking under Palm Pre?

Good point - it wouldn't be listed under "Treo."

[NM08SRT8]

Palm is the company, "Treo" "Pre" "Centro" are all Models in a lineup.

[AmeriKenny]

Palm is the company, "Treo" "Pre" "Centro" are all Models in a lineup.

And this is being established on the 12th page of this thread. :rolleyes:

[yabo]

And this is being established on the 12th page of this thread. :rolleyes:

Pfft... that's quick for this forum! :lol:

[NM08SRT8]

And this is being established on the 12th page of this thread. :rolleyes:
No need to be a smart ass buddy, I'm just helping out some people who are confused. Gah I hate trolls..

[ScrapMaker]

No need to be a smart ass buddy, I'm just helping out some people who are confused. Gah I hate trolls..


Meh, everyone should just calm down... This phone is freakingly-unbelievably-amazing, and everyone one is excited... Let's focus on happy hour, okay?

;)

[tbot]

What the hell happened to the other thread about some new info but possibly old news on the pre? Talking about fcc stuff and what not???

Not to thread jack or anything...

[ScrapMaker]

What the hell happened to the other thread about some new info but possibly old news on the pre? Talking about fcc stuff and what not???

Not to thread jack or anything...

FCC? Never saw that...

[Awake]

What the hell happened to the other thread about some new info but possibly old news on the pre? Talking about fcc stuff and what not???

Not to thread jack or anything...

It's right here: http://www.sprintusers.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2047408

For some reason they merged it with this thread: http://www.sprintusers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181449

[tbot]

^^thank you...weird, don't get that merge, but ok...

[madvek]

I was in my local mall this AM. I went into the Sprint store for a look. The manager asked if he could help me. When I inquired about the Pre, he had no clue, never even heard about it!.:eek:

He insisted I must be thinking about the Palm Pro, which he was anxious to show me his demo, being released on 2/15 yada yada yada... I had him do a google search on his PRO about the PRE...

Seriously, this is the manager of a Sprint store just outside of Boston. He never heard of the Palm Pre. Unfortunately, that 2/15 release is looking pretty unlikely.

[Awake]

I was able to speak with my rep from Sprint, he directed me to http://www.pdadb.net/index.php?m=pdamaster&posted=1&os=o100. He said nothing is official yet but the word is the release dates on pdadb.net are correct. He said the CDMA version could launch as early as mid-March to late April. As you can see the GSM version is slated for June. He said the Sprint reps who have been saying June for the CDMA version were mixing it up with the GSM version. He also said there are Reps who know but they can't release the info, these are some of the same Sprint reps who kept the Palm Pre secret until it's introduction at CES last month. Naturally I asked him (my rep) if he was one of the Sprint reps who knew about the Pre before CES, he said "n-n-no."

[tbot]

Damn...I guess the positive thing about this is my contract will be up AND it gives me some more time to save up...

[cwfluke]

I was able to speak with my rep from Sprint, he directed me to http://www.pdadb.net/index.php?m=pdamaster&posted=1&os=o100. He said nothing is official yet but the word is the release dates on pdadb.net are correct.

Damn...........April seems so far away. Wonder if people will still be talking about it until then or if the proverbial buzz will fizzle?! I for one, don't think I'll care to keep up and research a phone for 2-3 more months before it releases. I guess we'll see. But if its late April, who knows what else might come out that might be available "soon" that will catch my eye as well.

[patchs]

Damn...........April seems so far away. Wonder if people will still be talking about it until then or if the proverbial buzz will fizzle?! I for one, don't think I'll care to keep up and research a phone for 2-3 more months before it releases. I guess we'll see. But if its late April, who knows what else might come out that might be available "soon" that will catch my eye as well.

If anything, if it takes longer, the hype and buzz will build.
See iPhone, announcement, early Jan 2007, release, June 30, 2007.
I can wait. My contract ends in May, so this will time out well.

[Awake]

For me at least the buzz is starting to wear off, end of April really is no different than June. Reason being Sprint and Palm have the Pre as "coming soon" on their website. The Pre is not like a hot once in a lifetime beautiful girl with intelligence who gives you the impression you will get some soon then makes you wait a while. Those girls do not come around often. After the release of the Pre you can get it anytime, the question is will you still be interested, girl yes, Pre maybe, maybe not. Then you have the 2nd version of Android coming June/July and a new iphone (not that I would ever buy an iphone). Then theres Tesra (spelling).

[Awake]

If anything, if it takes longer, the hype and buzz will build.
See iPhone, announcement, early Jan 2007, release, June 30, 2007.
I can wait. My contract ends in May, so this will time out well.

If I recall Apple and ATT did not have it as "coming soon" on there website the same month it was announced.

[udratherbme]

I was thinking that, they may be waiting until after the CTIA in April, but who knows what they are w8n on

[utbaseball30]

Today I received a call from a sprint CS guy asking about my service and if im happy with it and if I had any questions. I asked about the release date for the pre and the pro. He seemed to be very familiar with both units acknowledging that the pre was a new OS and the pro was windows. He told me the Pre is scheduled for the end of the month of February.

But later when I call 611 and spoke to 2 different CS reps, one said the June date was changed in their system and the other said Feb too. Lets cross our fingers

[ScrapMaker]

I bet the users of this forum cost Sprint millions of dollars each year in pointless phone calls...

for the love of god... just stop... the CSRs don't know!

[cwfluke]

the question is will you still be interested, girl yes, Pre maybe, maybe not.........Then you have the 2nd version of Android coming June/July and a new iphone (not that I would ever buy an iphone). Then theres Tesra (spelling).

I agree - if they wait until May/June there will be lots of new phones (or at least rumblings of them) to catch my attention. Who knows....by then rumors of ANOTHER phone running webOS might already be started. I suppose I could still end up getting a Pre, I just won't be "kid in the candy store" excited about it. Oh well - its not as if they won't release it as soon as they think its ready.....all parties involved I think need it to go well and obviously the sooner the better for everyone. But in technology terms, June is a lifetime away.......with endless possibilities.

If anything, if it takes longer, the hype and buzz will build.
See iPhone

I disagree wholeheartedly. 1) Palm is NOT Apple and doesn't have the blind following that they had built up. 2) Lets face it, whilst it seems really nice, the Pre isn't as "revolutionary" as the iPhone was (at that time). And 3) .......unfortunately Sprint's reputation isn't quite as good as AT&T's was - warranted or not.

[cwfluke]

I bet the users of this forum cost Sprint millions of dollars each year in pointless phone calls...
for the love of god... just stop... the CSRs don't know!

I stopped calling Sprint CSRs after I had to offer up suggestions about how to program my phone when they couldn't get it to work. Every answer was "you can try, but I doubt that will work".........until it did. :thought: Not always the most informed people - not their fault necessarily....just the nature of the beast. I agree......can't think of one good reason to call a CSR about release date info on a phone that they may or may not have even heard of?!?!?!?!

[Darkflame808]

I bet the users of this forum cost Sprint millions of dollars each year in pointless phone calls...

for the love of god... just stop... the CSRs don't know!

And people wonder why CS are so grumpy. They should ditch the stupid music that sprint plays while you're on hold and just have it play audio recordings like "Please hold while we connect you to the next available representative, please note, Live customer support questions regarding the pre will be assessed a 10$ charge to your account. If you are calling about the palm pre and would like free automated information please press 1 now otherwise, please remain on the line for the next available representative.

*pushes 1*
What would you like to know?
1. More information about palm
2. More information about webos
3. More information regarding the release date
4. More info....

*Pushes 3*

"The palm pre is currently scheduled for release on-DISCONNECT-.........."

Just keep doing this..People will keep calling
Then they'll start dropping 10 bones just to have sprint tell them there's no ETA on the release date! LOL! GENUIS!

[ScrapMaker]

And people wonder why CS are so grumpy. They should ditch the stupid music that sprint plays while you're on hold and just have it play audio recordings like "Please hold while we connect you to the next available representative, please note, Live customer support questions regarding the pre will be assessed a 10$ charge to your account. If you are calling about the palm pre and would like free automated information please press 1 now otherwise, please remain on the line for the next available representative.

*pushes 1*
What would you like to know?
1. More information about palm
2. More information about webos
3. More information regarding the release date
4. More info....

*Pushes 3*

"The palm pre is currently scheduled for release on-DISCONNECT-.........."

Just keep doing this..People will keep calling
Then they'll start dropping 10 bones just to have sprint tell them there's no ETA on the release date! LOL! GENUIS!

Hell, that might actually make up for all the wasted calls.. I literally hear comments like, "I called 5 times today, and got 5 different answers."

Yeah, so stop calling--

[udratherbme]

I just thought about this... I read somewhere that Samsung has a device between the Instict and the Omnia, that has Android on it... so how many people are going to torn to choose between a proven OS vs an experimental one, price may dictate a lot of it, but I think both Sprint and Palm need to get off there arses and give us some info

[ScrapMaker]

I just thought about this... I read somewhere that Samsung has a device between the Instict and the Omnia, that has Android on it... so how many people are going to torn to choose between a proven OS vs an experimental one, price may dictate a lot of it, but I think both Sprint and Palm need to get off there arses and give us some info

I think we will learn a lot at the mobile convention coming up...

[GolpherZX]

First - I agree that a lot of people call for the sake of calling. Those who say to have people quit calling, just have the announcement already and that will save it all. Sprint/Palm is bringing this upon themselves. As a person that deals with customers directly, you should know this. If the information isn't public, people are going to ask. So if Sprint really wants to start saving money, make an announcement and calls should quit.

Just my thought. I see both sides, and am going to be patient myself, but wanted to mention this.

[cwfluke]

First - I agree that a lot of people call for the sake of calling. Those who say to have people quit calling, just have the announcement already and that will save it all. Sprint/Palm is bringing this upon themselves. As a person that deals with customers directly, you should know this. If the information isn't public, people are going to ask. So if Sprint really wants to start saving money, make an announcement and calls should quit.

Just my thought. I see both sides, and am going to be patient myself, but wanted to mention this.

Very valid point. If they announced the phone way before they were ready to announce a release date or any other details, then in a way they kind of brought in on themselves. I still can't think of a reason to call them though when you KNOW they don't know.

[laursifer]

People will always call, even if they know Sprint doesn't really know, it seems for some reason people love information, even if it's misinformation.

I wouldn't say Sprint brought this on themselves. The Pre was initially announced by Palm, not Sprint--once Palm announced it at CES, Sprint HAD to put up something about the phone, that's just a common sense reaction. Sprint has an option on their website to be notified when the Pre is available. Now, this notification system of theirs doesn't always work, but that's their shoddy tech team I guess. Who knows.

Basically, anyone with half a brain should know that when the release date is announced, a simple Google search or visit to Sprint's website (or the bagillion other online avenues) will yield the answer. All of this without having to press buttons on the phone and listen to that God-awful hold music. But people still call. This isn't Sprint's fault... this is all on the folks who insist on calling. Well, that's my opinion at least.

The internet has been around as an appropriate (and effective) source for information for how many years now? And so many people still don't know how to use it.

[ndnguy85]

People will always call, even if they know Sprint doesn't really know, it seems for some reason people love information, even if it's misinformation.

I wouldn't say Sprint brought this on themselves. The Pre was initially announced by Palm, not Sprint--once Palm announced it at CES, Sprint HAD to put up something about the phone, that's just a common sense reaction. Sprint has an option on their website to be notified when the Pre is available. Now, this notification system of theirs doesn't always work, but that's their shoddy tech team I guess. Who knows.

Basically, anyone with half a brain should know that when the release date is announced, a simple Google search or visit to Sprint's website (or the bagillion other online avenues) will yield the answer. All of this without having to press buttons on the phone and listen to that God-awful hold music. But people still call. This isn't Sprint's fault... this is all on the folks who insist on calling. Well, that's my opinion at least.

The internet has been around as an appropriate (and effective) source for information for how many years now? And so many people still don't know how to use it.

all they have to do is go to google news and do a search for palm pre release date. haha.

but i guess customer service in india knows more..:rolleyes:

[exi]

For those of you not following Engadget, they ran a piece earlier today saying that mid-March was possible but somewhat unlikely, but... well, here (http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/04/palm-pre-landing-mid-march/).

[eden922]

so it says that the pre is replacing the 755p, now if some one who had a 755p were to lose it or happen to break would sprint send the pre as the replacement?

[Darkflame808]

I doubt it, they will probably send you a centro since it's more compatible in features then the pre is. Palm OS being the main driving point.

[udratherbme]

They marked both the 755 and the 800 to 99 bucks after all the rebates so they should be going quick w/ all the PalmFanboys

[ajac]

just to add to the rumor mill I just got told last quarter of 2009 lol

The expected date for the launch of Palm Treo pro is February 15, 2009 and Palm Pre is expected to be launched in the last quarter of year 2009. Currently, we do not have any update about the pricing for these phones.

thats from e-care lol ahhh love it.

[vicn77]

just to add to the rumor mill I just got told last quarter of 2009 lol

The expected date for the launch of Palm Treo pro is February 15, 2009 and Palm Pre is expected to be launched in the last quarter of year 2009. Currently, we do not have any update about the pricing for these phones.

thats from e-care lol ahhh love it.

From Sprint's Playbook, the PRO has been delayed and the release date now is TBD.

Still no word on the PRE.

[ajac]

lol at least sprint can keep us entertained thats always a plus

[parazitu22]

I think e-care and CS just like messing with people :lol::lol:

[exi]

just to add to the rumor mill ... Palm Pre is expected to be launched in the last quarter of year 2009 ... .

Palm says 1H 2009 at CES, e-Care says late Q4 2009.

I'll take Palm's plan. With all due respect to the Sprint reps on this board, where the hell do these people get this stuff?

[grydlok]

Doesn't it really matter at this point.

[d12a60n]

Is it coincidence that Sprint is ending this offer on March 15th?

http://www.boygeniusreport.com/2009/02/06/sprint-etf-free-cancellations-extended-through-march-15/

hmm...

[eman]

Palm says 1H 2009 at CES, e-Care says late Q4 2009.

I'll take Palm's plan. With all due respect to the Sprint reps on this board, where the hell do these people get this stuff?

Q4 seems a little far out considering that palm has it on the front page of their website.

[ndnguy85]

e-care out of all people would know the accurate date.. :rolleyes:

my goodness! some people are so gullible.

sprint and palm said 1st half of 2009. that gives us from january 1 2009 to june 30 2009.

now why would someone think this phone is going to be released in october - dec? no company with any common sense would announce a phone that early.

[dknight247]

[QUOTE=dfine1966;2041764]This is Palm's last chance. If the Pre bombs than Palm is out of business. QUOTE]

yeah, especially after the FOLEO debacle!!

[udratherbme]

Heard tonight @ the Sprint lifestyle store... end of March maybe sooner

[AmeriKenny]

I just heard from a Sprint rep that it will be Feb. 14ish

[Dunpeal]

I hate to crash the parade, but the Palm Pro and the Palm Pre cannot and will not be released during the same time period.

The next two phone to be released on Sprint are the Palm Pro and Pre. The Palm Pro was suppose to be released in Jan 09 but got pushed back to Feb 15th 2009 and has been pushed back TBD.

Lets do some judgling here of thought. If the Pro has been pushed back yet again then more than likely it will be released on March 2009. The Pro has to stay on the market for at least 3-4 months before sales is diverted to another phone. This places the Pre to be launched in May-June 2009.

Think about what happened with the Instinct. The Instinct was debuted at CES but was not released until, after 2 postponements, Jun 2009. I believe this is the path is going to repeat with the Palm Pre. Same marketing patern.

[cwfluke]

Heard tonight @ the Sprint lifestyle store... end of March maybe sooner

I just heard from a Sprint rep that it will be Feb. 14ish

Honestly, lets stop with the "I heard this from this person". Nobody knows as no official release date has been announced. All any speculatory release date does is crowd the forums with useless information that you must sift through to get to possibly anything with some merit.

I hate to crash the parade, but the Palm Pro and the Palm Pre cannot and will not be released during the same time period.

The Pro has to stay on the market for at least 3-4 months before sales is diverted to another phone. This places the Pre to be launched in May-June 2009.

With all due respect, this just isn't true. The Pro is marketed to a completely different consumer. The Pro has WM on it - so its marketed more towards a business user who most likely NEEDS windows mobile - or those windows mobile fanboys that "need" all the customization that is available with WM. Whilst I agree that it won't be launched on the same day, saying it has to be 3-4 months apart doesn't make sense. The Pre may take some Treo Pro sales away, but I believe as soon as the Pre is ready it will be released. It will have NOTHING to do with Palm's other release dates for what amounts to "filler phones". The Pro appears to be a Q9C with a hint of Centro that's made by Palm. They can't expect it to sell that many anyway.

[NM08SRT8]

Honestly, lets stop with the "I heard this from this person". Nobody knows as no official release date has been announced. All any speculatory release date does is crowd the forums with useless information that you must sift through to get to possibly anything with some merit.



With all due respect, this just isn't true. The Pro is marketed to a completely different consumer. The Pro has WM on it - so its marketed more towards a business user who most likely NEEDS windows mobile - or those windows mobile fanboys that "need" all the customization that is available with WM. Whilst I agree that it won't be launched on the same day, saying it has to be 3-4 months apart doesn't make sense. The Pre may take some Treo Pro sales away, but I believe as soon as the Pre is ready it will be released. It will have NOTHING to do with Palm's other release dates for what amounts to "filler phones". The Pro appears to be a Q9C with a hint of Centro that's made by Palm. They can't expect it to sell that many anyway.
Very good post bruddah.. Very good. Another new-ish person who has brains :)

[ndnguy85]

Honestly, lets stop with the "I heard this from this person". Nobody knows as no official release date has been announced. All any speculatory release date does is crowd the forums with useless information that you must sift through to get to possibly anything with some merit.



With all due respect, this just isn't true. The Pro is marketed to a completely different consumer. The Pro has WM on it - so its marketed more towards a business user who most likely NEEDS windows mobile - or those windows mobile fanboys that "need" all the customization that is available with WM. Whilst I agree that it won't be launched on the same day, saying it has to be 3-4 months apart doesn't make sense. The Pre may take some Treo Pro sales away, but I believe as soon as the Pre is ready it will be released. It will have NOTHING to do with Palm's other release dates for what amounts to "filler phones". The Pro appears to be a Q9C with a hint of Centro that's made by Palm. They can't expect it to sell that many anyway.

thank you. :tu:

the only date thats worth going by is the 3/15 one. otherwise anytime before june 30.

[aknipp62]

I think I might get a Pre, or a touch pro, if the price is right. I'm waiting on my tax return plus I have the $150 credit, and a jar full of change that totals $88.00

$270 + $150 + $88.00 = $508

You think this is in the ball park of the price of the Pre?

[hypersnail]

The general consensus seems to be that the price after new contract or extension will be $199 to compete with the iPhone and G1.

Based on what sites have posted for the pre pre-sale price price, full price looks like $399.

[ScrapMaker]

I thought we had a huge thread about this already? I won't get mad, because you have the best dumbphone ever created...

[Fooster7]

I thought we had a huge thread about this already? I won't get mad, because you have the best dumbphone ever created...

Plus, you saved change for it. On the day of release, you should totally show up at the local Sprint store with the jar of change to buy the phone. Be sure to video tape their response. :hee:

[ScrapMaker]

Plus, you saved change for it. On the day of release, you should totally show up at the local Sprint store with the jar of change to buy the phone. Be sure to video tape their response. :hee:

That would be freakin' awesome...

EXCEPT

I want the phone ASAP... so I would pre-pay, if possible ;)

I will probably sit in the parking lot, playing with the phone... not driving..

Maybe I'll get a DD!!! haha

[aknipp62]

@ ScrapMaker,
Yeah sorry, i saw the other thread after I posted this, and yeah I love my M1, it has been the best phone I've ever had.

@ Fooster7,
Paying with change would be hilarious! I would do it if $10.73 of it wasn't in pennies. They might get a little P.O.ed if they had to count out 1,073 pennies. I am a cashier at a local grocery store so I know how annoying it is to count out change lol. I'm just gonna go to coinstar and let it do the work.

[Noodle]

Very good post bruddah.. Very good. Another new-ish person who has brains :)


I agree whoo hoo.

[Fooster7]

That would be freakin' awesome...

EXCEPT

I want the phone ASAP... so I would pre-pay, if possible ;)

I will probably sit in the parking lot, playing with the phone... not driving..

Maybe I'll get a DD!!! haha

I agree, I would pre-pay too, if I could...Although the delivery wait would kill me.

I'm probably going to take my GF with me so she can drive us home while I play with it. :)

[udratherbme]

Honestly, lets stop with the "I heard this from this person". Nobody knows as no official release date has been announced. All any speculatory release date does is crowd the forums with useless information that you must sift through to get to possibly anything with some merit.


Well to be honest with you, I posted this before, my wife was in the store looking to get a PRO b/c it has WinMo and that is what she is used to, store manager says, delayed TBD, BGR had made that a fact yesterday, but this morning they have another report of 3/15.... So she asks about the PRE since the PRO is TBD, he says, we expect end of March but possibly sooner

Its nothing but hearsay....

[bleuiz]

Well to be honest with you, I posted this before, my wife was in the store looking to get a PRO b/c it has WinMo and that is what she is used to, store manager says, delayed TBD, BGR had made that a fact yesterday, but this morning they have another report of 3/15.... So she asks about the PRE since the PRO is TBD, he says, we expect end of March but possibly sooner

Its nothing but hearsay....

That is correct.....
Although when I was in BB, the media salesperson showed me a paper with a February 15 date for the Pre....
Monday I was on the phone with a Sprint person....(thank you to whomever posted about cancelling without paying ETF..........) When I asked her about the Pre....she said middle February.....
Just will wait and see......:wavey:

[ScrapMaker]

That is correct.....
Although when I was in BB, the media salesperson showed me a paper with a February 15 date for the Pre....
Monday I was on the phone with a Sprint person....(thank you to whomever posted about cancelling without paying ETF..........) When I asked her about the Pre....she said middle February.....
Just will wait and see......:wavey:

I doubt this, but it could mean a February 15 launch at BB, and a March 15 launch at retail Sprint stores... Similar to the Touch Pro launch.

[Mbrahv0528]

It likely isn't coming out till May-June-July..why anyone would possibly think it's coming out Feb 15th is beyond me.

[bleuiz]

It likely isn't coming out till May-June-July..why anyone would possibly think it's coming out Feb 15th is beyond me.


At this point I think anything is possible....why do you say the months you do?

[Next Steps]

If it was coming out on the 15th, it would be soft launching on the 12th which is tommorrow. Now, not only is the phone not in stores, its not even in the warehouse. And its not even in the inventory system yet. I also seriously doubt the 3/15 date too even though it came from a Sprint internal memo. The last two PDA's that Sprint launched were the BB 8350i and Palm Treo Pro. Neither phones have launched in retail yet and have been pushed back a couple times each. At this point, I dont see Sprint keeping any launch dates. Things keep getting delayed and delayed.

One last thing. Once the new promo period starts on 2/15, it doesnt end til 4/18. Usually, Sprint doesn't like to launch phones in the middle of a promo period. They almost always launch phones on the start date, so the very earliest I could see the Pre launching is 4/19.

[AmeriKenny]

If it was coming out on the 15th, it would be soft launching on the 12th which is tommorrow. Now, not only is the phone not in stores, its not even in the warehouse. And its not even in the inventory system yet. I also seriously doubt the 3/15 date too even though it came from a Sprint internal memo. The last two PDA's that Sprint launched were the BB 8350i and Palm Treo Pro. Neither phones have launched in retail yet and have been pushed back a couple times each. At this point, I dont see Sprint keeping any launch dates. Things keep getting delayed and delayed.

One last thing. Once the new promo period starts on 2/15, it doesnt end til 4/18. Usually, Sprint doesn't like to launch phones in the middle of a promo period. They almost always launch phones on the start date, so the very earliest I could see the Pre launching is 4/19.
I certainly hope you are wrong, because I was really getting confident about it being released on Feb. 14 cuz I heard a Sprint rep tell me with confidence that it was going to be middle of Feb. :mad:

Not to mention that I'm more than ready to give up this Samsung M500 flip-phone for the Pre (if it doesn't require an Everything Plan) or a Palm Centro (if the Pre is ridiculously priced or has a ridiculous plan).

[vicn77]

A little more to add fuel to the fire.

According to Sprint's Playbook, there will be some preliminary online training for the PRE starting in March running into April. I can only ASSUME that the release would be shortly there after, but keep in mind online training was done for the PRO in January and it's still not out and the release date for the PRO is still TBD.

[patchs]

A little more to add fuel to the fire.

According to Sprint's Playbook, there will be some preliminary online training for the PRE starting in March running into April. I can only ASSUME that the release would be shortly there after, but keep in mind online training was done for the PRO in January and it's still not out and the release date for the PRO is still TBD.

The Pro is having memory issues, if not for that, it would have been out by now.
If the Pre gets approved without issues, your date of April could be right.

[ndnguy85]

The Pro is having memory issues, if not for that, it would have been out by now.
If the Pre gets approved without issues, your date of April could be right.

interesting..

My bud John over at MobileSyrup got word the other day of some new impending releases over at Bell. The biggest news surrounds the Palm (NSDQ: PALM) Treo Pro. It’s due to be released on Bell February 26th

[d12a60n]

LOL according to this the Pre's are already sitting in someones closet:

http://discussion.treocentral.com/palm-pre/176588-where-pre-hiding.html

LOL

[bleuiz]

Found this on another board.....this answers question about pricing.........

http://now.sprint.com/pre/?id9=vanity:pre

[surtin]

Was told today by a store manager that his latest e-mail from Sprint said that it'd be available on the 28th. Here's hoping that's true because my phone is pretty much down for the count now and I'm in desperate need of a new one.

[NM08SRT8]

Found this on another board.....this answers question about pricing.........

http://now.sprint.com/pre/?id9=vanity:pre
Old news killer, try searching next time..

[BTSmith]

At this point I think anything is possible....why do you say the months you do?

He says it because 99% of the time when a maker says second quarter they mean and actually deliver to the end of the second quarter (late June) -- or at the begining of the third quarter. A release before late june is possible but Feb or late march is not going to happen, you would see beta pics all over.

[bleuiz]

Old news killer, try searching next time..

Excuse me for trying to share something that I thought was important.....since it was an old news killer....you could have just read on.....

[NM08SRT8]

Excuse me for trying to share something that I thought was important.....since it was an old news killer....you could have just read on.....
I could have, but then you would have continued to post old information which would just be rerunning this whole thread and all the other threads in the Pre section. Just tryin to help.. You're Welcome..

[bleuiz]

I could have, but then you would have continued to post old information which would just be rerunning this whole thread and all the other threads in the Pre section. Just tryin to help.. You're Welcome..

You do not know what I would have done...........
I, too, was being helpful by sharing something important.....
I hope you help people IRL in a nicer manner.....
I'm done with this conversation.......