The new LG AX490 mobile handset is now available on the wireless carrier, Alltel Wireless and getting a lot of attention for it being the first U.S Fastap-enabled handset. For the uninitiated,Fastap handsets sport a complete different approach to keypad design which makes activities like SMS, Instant Messaging, Multimedia Messaging, Web Browsing, mobile music more accessible and convenient. If you see the image you will notice that the keypad architecture is an amalgamation of raised alpha keys and lowered number keys which is further enhanced by the error prevention software. According to the company this new design has proven to increase 120 percent more messaging among mobile subscribers.

So enough about Fastap, lets see what else does the new LG phone has to offer. The LG AX490 claims to take inspiration from racing cars when it comes to form factor! In fact the handset would include special ringtones, games and graphics of Ryan Newman, driver of the Alltel No. 12 Dodge and also features other Alltel services like Axcess Apps and Axcess Web. It lacks a camera and a MP3 Player so may not appeal to all.