Samsung  today announced the upcoming availability of the Samsung Mondi, its new mobile WiMAX enabled handheld device for U.S. The touch screen Mondi, which takes its name from the Latin word for “world”, is designed for use with the Clear mobile WiMAX service from Clearwire. Mondi packs a full -featured web browser, powered by Opera 9.5, which takes full advantage of the device’s 4.3-inch touch screen. It also supports various services including Fring, Gypsii, and MS Live Messenger.

The Mondi carries many of the powerful features and uses of a laptop computer or netbook, but its compact slider form factor easily fits into the hand or pocket. GPS Navigation provided by Route 66 adds to the Mondi’s versatility. The Samsung Mondi includes the following features:

• Windows Mobile 6.1
• Microsoft Outlook and Windows Mobile Office
• WiMAX Mobile Internet Access
• WiFi Access (BTv2.1+EDR)
• GPS: Route 66 Navigation with Preloaded Maps
• 4GB of Internal Memory
• Direct Push/Mobile Email (POP3, IMAP, SMTP)
• Supports Instant Messaging and MMS
• 3.0 Megapixel Camera and Camcorder
• Bluetooth 2.0
• Opera 9.5 Web Browser
• HDMI TV Out
• Supports Multiple Video and Audio Player Formats

Clearwire currently provides mobile WiMAX service in Portland, Ore. and Baltimore, MD.. The company expects to bring the service to more than 80 markets by 2010. Some of the major markets expected to launch Clear service this year include Atlanta, Las Vegas, Chicago, Charlotte, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Honolulu, Philadelphia, and Seattle.