United offers free smartphone

United Airlines has announced a deal that will keep customers in touch with their colleagues while they fly.

From today until December 31, all customers who book a paid, qualifying roundtrip or one-way flight of $500 or more and activate a Cingular Wireless service plan will receive a free Palm TreoTM 650 smartphone.

The phone combines a cell phone with email, an organizer, text messaging, a camera, an MP3 player, and Internet access.

Dennis Cary, United senior vice president of marketing, believes it is a great opportunity for passengers to stay connected while traveling for both business and pleasure.

Mr Cary added: "One of the toughest aspects of business travel is not just losing touch with the office and knowing that you'll return to a mountain of email and work, but also losing touch with your family and friends. This smartphone allows travelers to stay on top of things."

To qualify for the offer, customers must be members of United's frequent flyer program, Mileage Plus.

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