The New RZR ... uh... I mean "KRZR": First Look

The new "KRZR" cell phone is here and it's basically an upgraded "RZR" phone in a new prettier and shinier package. Most of its features are the same or similar to the RZR phones. So here I'll discuss the upgrades. First off, I have to point out that there are at least 3 different versions of this phone out there: The K1, K1m, and K1m Asian version. I will only discuss the K1 and K1m here. The photo above is of the K1... the first version, if you will.

Here's how the KRZR differs from the RZR: It sports a 2-megapixel (K1) or 1.3 megapixel (K1m) camera, mini-SD expansion (up to 1GB) slot near the battery cover for expansion, a bit taller(Height) and thicker (width) than the RZR. But from side to side (Length) it's skinnier. It's also a tad heavier than the RZR. The increase in thickness and Height may seem like a step backward, but it is reportedly more ergonomic and feels better in your hand. The K1 (above) is only available in Cosmic Blue. Also both versions have a front that is covered with a layer of glass that makes the phone shinny with its glossy beauty. Both versions can play MP3 files and can use the mini-SD slot to expand music capacity. The K1 is currently only available if purchased by itself unlocked for use with any carrier. An important note is that the K1 does not have the touch sensitive "play" buttons on the front that the K1m does.

Cost of K1 "KRZR" Retail: $400-$600

The K1m (below) has most of the features of the K1 except that it's camera is only 1.3 megapixels resolution and it's internal screen resolution isn't as great. One cool addition it does have that the K1 does not, is the cool glowing touch sensitive play buttons on the front. The K1m is only available right now in the dark silvery gray color shown below, and only through Verizon cell phone carrier.

Cost of K1m "KRZR" through Verizon with Contract: $99-$199

First Impressions:

This phone looks stunning and is sure to appeal to the same crowd that loved the Rzr. The touch sensitive play buttons on the front (on the K1m) is really the most impressive innovation besides the gorgeous design. The mp3 function with expandable memory is a selling point to those of us who had the version of Rzrs lacking these features. My bet is that it's looks alone will guarentee this phone's success.