Hop-On (who!?) launches GSM/CDMA smartphone (what!?) for gamblers (wtf!?)

This is an odd duck out of left field, if you’ll allow me to mix metaphors like I mix a cocktail. The HOP2001 by Hop-On is a Windows Mobile 6-based smartphone with a Treo-like form factor that can be used for either AT&T or Verizon Wireless, due to it’s fairly unique dual-mode GSM or CDMA architecture.

While GSM/CDMA Frankenphone’s are unheard of, Hop-On nearly is, notable for making disposable cellphones not long ago. The company also specializes in mobile gambling technologies, and is aiming this phone at those who like to wager.

You’ll pardon the pun, but this phone seems like it coule be a sure bet, features-wise. a 320×240 touchscreen lives above a T9 keypad. The backside features a 3-Megapixel camera with a 10x (probably digital) zoom.

The insides are winners, too, with Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi-g, a 400MHz Qualcomm proc, 256 internal memory, microSD, and a GPS locator with Telenav.

This is really a WinMo phone with everything short of QWERTY, but with the touchscreen you don’t really need it. How this phone is going to work for gamblers, or where they’re going to get it, is unknown, but with both AT&T and Verizon touting the openness of their respective networks, this phone should be popular with some crowds.

Hop-On HOP2001 [Product page, via Slippery Brick]