Samsung has announced the availability of the Samsung Messager (not Messenger), or SCH-r450, as exclusive to MetroPCs consumers. MetroPC is a US company that offers mobile phone contracts and specializes in wireless unlimited call plans.

The Messager’s highlight is its landscape slide-out QWERTY keyboard. The phone features a 1.3 megapixel camera, a 2.1″ display with 176×220 pixels of resolution, which is really way to small for a full keyboard phone. There is also a MP3 player, Bluetooth, MMS, and microSD memory card support up to 2GB.

The R450 targets young users who send lots of text messages or make heavy use of Instant Messaging applications on their phone.

The device is selling at US$199 from MetroPCs with no contracts attached. The press release, and more pictures are available after the jump.

Source: Softpedia, Earthtimes

Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), today announced the availability of the Samsung Messager™ (SCH-r450) to MetroPCS customers at authorized dealer locations and company-owned retail locations. The Samsung Messager sports a sleek horizontal slider-design and QWERTY keyboard, making it easy for users to travel light and stay in touch while on the go.

“The stylish horizontal slider of the Samsung Messager is easy to use,” said Bill Ogle, Chief Marketing Officer of Samsung Telecommunications America. “The Samsung Messager’s attractive layout and QWERTY keyboard is a great fit for people who love text messaging.”

Available in black, the Messager is packed with a powerful feature set, including a built-in 1.3 megapixel camera, SMS, MMS, email and IM messaging capabilities¹, advanced voice recognition, Bluetooth® wireless technology and speakerphone for easy, hands-free operation. The Messager’s MP3 player boasts a rich user interface, while the external micro SD slot provides the user with up to 2GB of memory support.

For more information on where to purchase the Samsung Messager, please visit metropcs.com or samsungwireless.com.

Key features of the Samsung Messager include:

• Horizontal Slider with QWERTY Keyboard
• Stereo Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
• MP3 Player (microSD)
• 1.3 Megapixel Camera
• Messaging Services
• Advanced Voice Recognition
• Speakerphone
• Dimensions: 4.4” x 2.0” x 0.7”
• Display: 2.1” 262K TFT, 176X220 pixels