targetmobile
Latest
RadioShack's Target Mobile partnership to end on April 8th (update: Target picks new partners)
If you're planning on waltzing into a Target store and picking up a cellphone with a monthly plan, you only have until April 8th to do so. RadioShack, which operates Target Mobile in 1,500 Target stores, has come to an agreement with its fellow retailer to end the relationship, effective April 8, 2013. The duo says they're parting ways on amicable terms since they couldn't strike a new deal -- which they've been hoping to hammer out since October -- that would make the business profitable for each party. For those whose fancies are struck by pay-as-you-go solutions, Target's prepaid mobile business won't be affected by the deal. Update: Target let us know that Target Mobile will continue offering phones and service past April thanks to a new partnership with Brightstar and MarketSource. Also, the retailer assures us that phone service for existing customers is slated to continue uninterrupted during the transition. Hit the jump for the full press release. [Image credit: Roadsidepictures, Flickr]
HTC Rhyme preorders said to begin September 22, Plum-colored exclusive at Target? (updated)
Ahead of HTC's big announcement, a tipster has leaked this screen-grab from Target Mobile showing the HTC Rhyme (formerly the Bliss), ready for eager fans to pre-order from September 22nd -- apparently the official launch date. Target Mobile looks to have exclusive rights on a plum-colored version of the Verizon handset, previously seen in white and green. The leak also adds some early details on the rumored charm notifier, which lights up to announce incoming calls and messages. It appears to connect to the headphone jack and will apparently work "outside of clothing." In-ear buds appear to be included and, while it's still unclear whether these will also be Beats Audio offerings, it certainly would be name-appropriate. Handset details sound pretty concrete, seemingly confirmed by another leak at Unwired View, with a 3.7-inch WVGA Super LCD screen (matching that on the HTC Desire S), Android Gingerbread and a rear-facing five megapixel camera. According to the leaks -- and even the official-looking renders -- it will be one of the first phones to arrive with HTC's refreshed Sense 3.5 UI. The smart money is on an appearance at HTC's soiree later today, and we'll be there to find out for sure. Update: We just got word from Target's PR team that the Rhyme will go up for pre-order tomorrow, September 21st, instead of the 22nd. The rep also confirmed that the retailer will be accepting pre-orders at 1,492 Target Mobile locations through the 26th (the Rhyme goes on sale on the 29th).
