The acquisition of Danger by Microsoft was bittersweet. On one hand, the possibility of next-generation HipTop devices sounded promising, but doubts over whether the proprietary OS could hold its own against the likes of Android and iOS remained. Ultimately, the product died, but the Sidekick name lives on. Introducing the T-mobile Sidekick 4G by Samsung, a fresh take on the killer keyboard powered by Android.
While many would argue the Sidekick/Hiptop never stood a chance against full-fledged smartphones, the handset was certainly ahead of its time. With an unlimited, always-on data connection, instant “push” email, and a multi-client messaging app — the Sidekick offered a glimpse into the future. Powered by Danger servers, the Sidekick kept your data in the cloud and became the benchmark for modern-day smartphones.
Today, the new Sidekick 4G by Samsung carries on the tradition, keeping the same general design and slide-out screen. Unfortunately the swivel display is gone, but the four primary buttons and dedicated camera key remain. With a 3.5-inch display, five-row QWERTY keyboard, new “pop-tilt” hinge, and HSPA+ 21Mbps support, this is the Sidekick for 2011.
At the heart of the Sidekick 4G is Android 2.2 Froyo and a 1 GHz Cortex A8 Hummingbird processor. A front-facing video camera (VGA), DriveSmart automatic incoming call and message management, and Google’s core services (Maps, Gmail, Android Market) round out the features. The T-mobile Sidekick 4G will be released this Spring in matte black or pearl magenta. No word on a worldwide release, but we expect more details to follow
Coming Spring | T-mobile | TBD
