Kyocera Wireless and Cricket Communications announced the introduction of the Kyocera Lingo, a QWERTY clamshell phone available in the U.S.

The Lingo features a high-end ergonomic design, opening lengthwise to reveal the keypad ideal for text-messaging fanatics. It also offers a host of other features, including Bluetooth wireless technology, a 1.3 megapixel camera, voice recognition, dual color displays and a loud, clear speakerphone. Productivity tools include a scheduler, calculator, alarm clock, stopwatch, tip calculator, countdown timer, and voice memos.

It supports Cricket's Mobile Web, which allows customers to browse news, entertainment and sports; chat; and personalize their handsets with the latest ringtones and graphics. The Lingo will also allow customers to download games with Cricket Games & Apps.

The Lingo measures 3.94 in x 1.97 in x 0.79 and weighs 3.5 ounces--with CDMA talk time up to 3.25 hours and standby time up to 150 hours. The Kyocera Lingo is available at select Cricket retail stores and dealers immediately for $199.99.