(click image for larger view)
MetroPCS Windows Mobile Smartphone

MetroPCS introduced its first Windows Mobile smartphone, and the prepaid carrier is aiming for cost-conscious consumers and businesses that want to stay connected while on the go.

The Samsung Code is powered by Windows Mobile 6.1, and it has a full QWERTY keyboard on the face. While the device does not have the high-end features of something like the BlackBerry Bold 9700, or even the latest version of Microsoft's mobile operating system, the Code can receive push e-mail, calendar, and contact information from Microsoft Exchange servers. Additionally, the handset will also come with Outlook Mobile, and it can receive over-the-air e-mails from Web-based accounts like Gmail.

The handset can also use MetroPCS' 3G network for downloading e-mails and surfing the Web with the full HTML browser, and it also comes with Bluetooth. Users will be able to add new applications as well, and the Code comes with expandable memory with support up to 32 GB.

"In a time when consumers want more from a phone than simply to talk or text, our customers will be able to take full advantage of the Samsung Code's advanced features and services that will give them an enriched wireless experience," said Roger Linquist, CEO of MetroPCS, in a statement.

With its flat-rate, no-contract cellular service, MetroPCS is generally aimed at the consumer market, but smartphones like the Code could be appealing to some small businesses. MetroPCS smartphones do not have to be tied to a specific employee, and these could be easily swapped between employees based on needs or staffing changes. The company also introduced its first BlackBerry earlier this year that also offers corporate e-mail capabilities on the go.

InformationWeek Analytics has published an independent analysis on application delivery. Download the report here (registration required).