FCC approves UMTS-ready BenQ S81

Okay, so we all know that slim is in these days when it comes to cell phones, and 3G is a hot new trend for high speed data. You can get the best of both worlds with the brand spanking new BenQ-Siemens S81, because the FCC has given the 11.3mm thick candybar a big fat stamp of approval.

We first heard about this UMTS compatible handset back in February, but now that the almighty suits have given it the go-ahead, there is a good chance that a local retailer will be picking up the phone some time soon. Other features include a 1.3 megapixel camera with – get this – 10x digital zoom, an integrated music player (MP3, AAC, AAC+, WMA), and a microSD expansion slot for cards up to 1GB.

As expected, there’s Bluetooth support on board, as well as USB connectivity. Weighing in at 99 grams, this tri-band GSM handset is ready for 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz frequencies, as well as WCDMA 2100MHz. No word on pricing.