Verizon Wireless in a stunning move announced today that it will open up to ‘Any device and Any Application‘ some time in 2008. That would mean a Verizon Wireless customer can bring any Mobile handset (that passes basic technical tests) and can install any application he/she likes to have on the mobile device. 

Verizon Wireless today announced that it will provide customers the option to use, on its nationwide wireless network, wireless devices, software and applications not offered by the company. Verizon Wireless plans to have this new choice available to customers throughout the country by the end of 2008.

In early 2008, the company will publish the technical standards the development community will need to design products to interface with the Verizon Wireless network. Any device that meets the minimum technical standard will be activated on the network. Devices will be tested and approved in a $20 million state-of-the-art testing lab which received an additional investment this year to gear up for the anticipated new demand. Any application the customer chooses will be allowed on these devices.

Verizon Wireless will continue to provide a full-service offering, from retail stores where customers can shop, to 24/7 customer service and technical support, to an easy-to-use handset interface and optimized software applications.

Verizon Wireless To Introduce ‘Any Apps, Any Device’ Option For Customers In 2008

Verizon Wireless, the wireless company with the nation’s most reliable wireless voice and data network, and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung)  announced the online availability of the Verizon Wireless FlipShot™ by Samsung

Featuring a 3.0 megapixel built-in camera with a rotating display for optimal viewing while in camera mode and available in black, the FlipShot enables photo enthusiasts to capture picture-perfect moments while carrying a device that allows for full mobile phone functionality and high-quality digital photos. The handset features Bluetooth^® capability for headsets, stereo, car kits, object push (for vCard only), basic image and basic print as well as a business card scanner.

Features of the new Verizon Wireless FlipShot by Samsung include:

• 3.0 megapixel camera with Digital Zoom
• Camcorder
• Living Wallpaper
• PictBridge printing capable
• V CAST Music and Video capable
• Speakerphone
• Get it Now^®
• Messaging Services – SMS, EMS and MMS messaging, e-mail, Mobile IM and chat
• VZ Navigator^SM
• Mobile Web 2.0^SM
• Dimensions: 3.76” X 1.83” X .73” with standard battery
• Personal organizer with Calendar, Calculator, Notepad, Alarm Clock and World Clock
• Display: 240 X 320 pixel, 260K color TFT Internal

Verizon’s website will offer the black version of the handset and Best Buy will sell the red handset starting on the 26th. Both versions cost $199.99 with a two-year contract. (Source: Fierce Wireless)