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What? Europe has the better Palm Pre?
Palm is showing off the UMTS version of the Palm Pre for European networks at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. This version one-ups the US model I got to play with at CES with simultaneous data connection and voice connection. The US model can only do one of those tasks at a time.
But, but, but, why?
The easy answer is thank Sprint. Their EVDO technology requires a temporary disconnect from the data connection when moving to activate the voice connection. UTMS technology like those in Europe and AT&T in the US does not require this “hiccup.” This is common to all EVDO and UMTS phones.
Cheat the system?
We all know about jailbreaking the iPhone to use it on other networks, but what about the Pre? Would it be possible to purchase a UMTS phone in a foreign land and bring it home to the US to get maximum multitasking out of the Pre? Technically, yes. It is unclear if an unlocked version of the phone will be sold outside the US. I have to assume one will not be sold in the US as their exclusive agreement with Sprint should forbid it.
Palm Pre goes GSM
The first big news from Barcelona’s Mobile World Congress show this morning is from Palm. The company is showing off a GSM version of their expected-to-be smash hit phone: the Pre, complete with Vodaphone sim cards. Palm insists it is not making any statements at the show regarding a partnership with any carrier, but Vodaphone’s arch rival O2 tied up the iPhone so the big “V” would make a bit of sense.
Previously, Palm did not comment on a GSM version or if there would be one. In the US, Palm is hitching this horse to the Sprint wagon, which uses CDMA technology. Palm is obviously counting on the Pre to become a world-wide sensation, following in the steps of the iPhone.
So far, the folks at Palm Pre Community predictably love the one on one time they got with the phone and I expect that to be the trend with the journalists at the fair. Expect lots more love shown for the Pre out of Barcelona. Apple could have a real fight on their hands if developers can get behind it and compete with the App Store.
