Helio Fin Getting Significant Buzz
8/27/07 – Helio, the Westwood-based mobile virtual network operator, or MVNO, has been getting significant press for its new ultra-thin Fin device. Touted as the thinnest “clamshell” phone available in the U.S., the Fin is getting attention similar to the Ocean dual-slider device, which has been a hit for the company. For Helio, the buzz and overall positive reviews come at a good time, as the recent bankruptcy filing and subsequent shutdown of fellow Los Angeles-based MVNO Amp’d Mobile has only intensified questions about the MVNO business model in general.
Helio is selling the Fin, which is manufactured by Samsung, for $175 at company stores and online. As an MVNO, Helio does not own wireless spectrum, but leases it and resells the basic phone service from mobile phone companies. Helio’s real value proposition is value-added services and specialized devices, like the Fin, that it offers to customers.
Founded in 2005, the company is a joint venture of Atlanta-based Internet service provider EarthLink and South Korea’s SK Telecom, each of which recently increased their investments in Helio.
Helio – www.helio.com
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Posted by: freakZoid | August 27, 2007 01:03 PM
Posted by: Mac Bookpro | August 28, 2007 10:20 AM