[Sprint's new Ready Link RL-A760 is the first to feature Voice SMS messaging. Mobile Tech News takes a look.]

By Jean Panke -- Samsung's RL-A760 is a dual band/tri-mode offering basic handset functionality along with Ready Link, Sprint's PTT service. In addition the handset is capable of Web access through the Sprint PCS Vision service and Voice SMS messaging.

The clamshell RL-A760 is stylish and comfortable. It is smaller than other PTT handsets Mobile Tech News has evaluated recently weighing in at only 3.8 ounces. The one Sprint sent us had a combination silver and blue metallic housing. The front flip screen is monochromatic and has the time, date and phone status line. Above the screen is a built-in speakerphone. The key on the left of the housing is the Ready Link Key. The key below it is the volume key. On the right side is the speaker key. The keypad has the typical layout including shift and space keys. The internal screen measures 1.8" and offers a 65K-color STN display.

The RL-760 is the first handset featuring Sprint SMS Voice Messaging. This service allows users to send and receive instant voice messages to any mobile phone or Email address without going through a voicemail system. An SMS Voice message can be addressed to as many as 10 people.

The easiest way to send an SMS Voice message is to go to Messaging from the main menu and then select send message. From there go to VoiceSMS. Next you enter a mobile phone number, an email address, or select from the phone's Contacts list. You then have 2 minutes of recorded messaging time available. Once you've finished your message, select send and off it goes. So much easier than typing in text. When you receive an SMS Voice Message, a pop-up window appears on the phone's main screen. You can either play the message or save it for later. Note, however, that you can store incoming messages but not outgoing messages. The charge for SMS Voice Messaging is exactly like SMS Text Messaging and depends on your service plan. Generally you pay a set amount per message or the message counts againt any SMS Text Messaging allowance you may have. All in all a great messaging service and very fast, efficient and easy.

The main feature of this handset is the PTT Ready Link functionality. Ready Link has its own separate address book with two lists. One is for "personal" and one for "company." The personal list can be maintained through the phone but the company list can only be created and maintained by an authorized administrator.

To make a Ready Link call press the left soft key for R-Link and press it again for Go to and highlight the desired list and press OK. Highlight the contact or group you want to call and hold the R-Link key to place the call and get the floor. Once you see the message "You have floor," you can begin speaking. Continue to hold the R-Link button as you speak and when you're finished release the button to allow the other party to speak. When the call is finished, press End.

Even though there is no camera available, you can still use photo caller ID by downloading images and photos to contacts listed in the internal phone book. You can also customize R-Link ring tones using one of 29 embedded ring tones.

Strengths:

-R-Link capable, SMS Voice Messaging, and some personalization features such as Photo ID and ring tone assignments.

-A good solid basic telephone with easy to use keypad and easy navigation

Weaknesses:

-No MMS, no entertainment, no fun ):

All in all a nice handset for someone looking for PTT functionality in a smaller size handset.

The RL-A760 sells for $229.99 or $79.99 after rebate at Sprint Stores nationwide.

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