Sprint and SANYO Introduce Katana Mobile Phone

July 10, 2006--The legendary Katana, best known as a precision instrument sword used by the Samurai, has a new identity, that of a cutting-edge wireless phone by Sprint and SANYO. This ultra-thin, affordable phone features Bluetooth Wireless Technology and a built-in camera and is designed to appeal to the fashion-centric consumer who likes to make a statement with the wireless phone he or she carries. Making its debut throughout the month of July in four bold colors, including Mystic Black, Blue Sapphire, Cherry Blossom Pink, and Polar White, which is a color that will be sold exclusively at RadioShack, the Katana will be available at Sprint Stores, online (www.sprint.com) and at select third-party retailers for $279.99 or $79.99 after rebates with a two-year subscriber agreement.

"The Katana by SANYO bridges the best in mobile phone design with Sprint's powerful network to deliver an affordable wireless phone that's truly unique and exclusive to Sprint customers," said Oliver Valente, senior vice president of product development for Sprint. "With four colors to choose from, customers get to express themselves via a very personal device that's always with them. The wireless phone is becoming a cultural staple of our day, and it can be as unique as the person who carries it."

"The Katana wireless phone is symbolic of SANYO's highly regarded craftsmanship, which has earned us high marks from consumers and from our peers in the industry," said Andy Kodera, senior vice president and general manager of SANYO Fisher Company's Wireless Communications Division. "The SANYO Katana is fashioned from a long-standing tradition of precision, style and beauty - much like the katana sword of the past," Kodera explained.

Key Features

• Sleek Profile - Ultra-thin clamshell design and internal antenna.
  
• Bluetooth Wireless Technology - Enjoy hands-free communication by using headsets, car-kits, and other select Bluetooth-capable devices. Transfer addresses using Bluetooth and use the phone as a dial-up modem for quick access to the Internet. Bluetooth accessories sold separately.
  
• Large, High-Resolution Main Display - See more detail and more text in high resolution.
  
• Built-In VGA Camera - Capture images up to 480 x 640 pixels with the built-in VGA camera with digital zoom.
  
• Built-in Speakerphone - Accomplish other tasks while you talk with callers through a two-way speakerphone. Services Supported*
• Sprint PCS Vision - Download images, ringers, games, and other applications with Sprint PCS Vision to make your phone unique to you!
  
• Sprint PCS Picture Mail(SM) (www.sprint.com/picturemail) - Instantly shoot, share, and print your digital pictures through participating retailers across the country.
  
• Text Messaging - Instantly send and receive SMS Text Messages across the room or across the country.
  
• Wireless Backup - Restore your contact information quickly and easily if your phone is ever lost, stolen, damaged or replaced.
  

* Additional charges may apply

For more information, visit SANYO Wireless Communications online at www.sanyowireless.com.

SOURCE SANYO, Sprint