http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-973...?tag=cnetfd.mt

With the iPhone completely dominating cell phone news this week, it's easy
to forget that other cell phones exist. Crave wonders why any manufacturer
or service provider would see the PR benefit in making an announcement this
week, but that hasn't stopped T-Mobile from unveiling its Hotspot @Home and
Sprint from taking the wraps off its new LG Muziq phone.

But today Verizon Wireless revealed that it was hosting its own party to
match the Apple and AT&T events on the iPhone launch day. In a press
release, the carrier invites shoppers to test-drive "the leading wireless
company with the most reliable voice and data network". Meow.

The carrier also invites shoppers to check out its selection of music cell
phones, including the LG VX9400, which is on sale for $99.99. That's a good
deal for a cool phone, but the keep in mind that the spiffy V Cast Mobile
TV service (something the VX9400 supports) is available only in a few
cities. Yet unlike the iPhone, the LG handset does offer 3G.

Buyers will also be able to download songs wirelessly at the stores from
Verizon's V Cast Music service. As everyone knows, the iPhone will not
support tune downloads over the air. But the best news is that customers
will get a free Music Essentials kit, which normally sets you back $30.
That's exceedingly generous of Verizon, considering the kit is needed to
even sync a phone with a PC. We don't know why Verizon just doesn't give
you the kit in the first place, but that another story.

So if you've decided you're too cool for the iPhone, or you refuse to leave
Verizon for AT&T, you'll be pleased to know that Verizon has you covered.
Verizon stores and kiosks will stay open until 9 p.m. And you can be sure
these stores won't have a line.