Verizon Wireless and LG Mobile Phones today announced the February 1, 2005 availability of the LG VX8000 phone, the first handset in the United States for consumers that runs on Verizon Wireless’ EV-DO (Evolution-Data Optimized) 3G network.

The VX8000, available exclusively to Verizon Wireless customers, will provide access to VCAST, the nation’s only 3G consumer multimedia service, allowing Verizon Wireless customers to be the first in the nation to use their handsets to view video clips from major news, sports and entertainment brands and play three-dimensional games.

The VX8000 features Video on Demand for playing video clips and Music on Demand capabilities for playing audio clips, when available. Movie buffs, music fans and everyone in between can download content on their mobile phones with just a few clicks, with clarity and sharpness never before seen on mobile phones in the United States. The VX8000 also features video messaging capabilities – customers can take up to 15 seconds of video with the VX8000’s integrated 1.3 mega-pixel camera and send their clips to any email address. With the VX8000, family and friends stay connected and share their experiences every day, as they happen.

The LG VX8000 will be available for $199.99 after $70.00 mail-in rebate with a two-year customer agreement at more than 1,200 Verizon Wireless Communications Stores nationwide, Circuit City stores, participating RadioShack locations or on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com beginning on February 1, 2005.