Amp'd Serves up Video-Packing Motorola Q

Motorola launched the slim smartphone craze last May with the svelte Q, but the phone has lagged behind such competitors as the Samsung BlackJack due to its middling video abilities. Sure, the Sprint and Verizon Wireless versions of the Q come with Windows Media Player, but they won't let you access the on-demand clips on Verizon's V Cast Video or Sprint TV, whereas the BlackJack lets you tap into Cingular Video over the carrier's HSDPA network. That's all set to change, however, with Amp'd's souped-up version of the Q—now with streaming video to spare.

The hip virtual carrier announced that its take on the Q will arrive in early April, complete with 24 channels of live TV and 55 on-demand video channels. I'm still waiting for details on the live offerings, but on-demand clips should include content from MTV, E! Entertainment, Comedy Central, Adult Swim, and FOX Sports. Even better, RCR Wireless News reports that the Amp'd Q will come pre-loaded with Sling Media's SlingPlayer Mobile and Orb Network's "place-shifting" software, allowing you to remotely stream video and music from your home PC. Also on tap are music videos and full-track music downloads for 99 cents each, plus a redesigned Flash Lite interface. Finally, for on-the-go chatters who still feel the need to be productive, the phone comes with the Windows Mobile Smartphone version of Microsoft Outlook and a document reader, along with support for stereo Bluetooth headsets. Look for the Amp'd Q to arrive on April 3 for $199 (with a service agreement).