Samsung today announced the upcoming availability of the Z400 by Samsung, exclusive to Sprint. The durable clamshell handset passed rigorous testing to meet military standards specifications (MIL-STD 810F) for resistance to dust, shock and vibration and is housed in a rubberized coating to reduce scratching and improve grip. The Z400 is Samsung’s first Nextel Direct Connect capable handset.

The Z400 is designed with a dark blue finish and black rubber housing. The rubber coating improves grip and protects against scratching in rugged work environments. Taking pictures while on-the-go is easy thanks to a 1.3 megapixel camera with 2x digital zoom. The Z400 is also outfitted with a video camcorder for creating video clips to share with family and friends.

In addition to its unique design, the Z400 offers the following features for fast and simple communication:

• Single number option: Simplicity of using one number for both wireless phone calls and Nextel Direct Connect calls. All users can opt to maintain separate numbers if preferred. (This is not available for all numbers)
• PTT Missed Call Notification: When on a Nextel Direct Connect call, receive a notification that you missed a PTT call, Call Alert, or Group Connect call.
• DC Permissions: Ability to block/allow incoming one-to-one PTT calls and Call Alerts. (Not applicable for Group calls).
• Call Alert/Call Alert with Text: Send a repeating alert to let any other Nextel Direct Connect user know you are trying to reach them. With the new Text feature you can send canned text messages with a Call Alert. (Users must have a Nextel Direct Connect capable Sprint device to receive the text.)
• Group Connect: Communicate or coordinate activities with up to 20 other Nextel Direct Connect subscribers all at once. Create and manage groups dynamically on your phone or online. Group Connect participants must also have a Nextel Direct Connect capable Sprint device with the Group Connect feature.
• TeamDC: Communicate or coordinate activities with up to 35 Nextel Direct Connect subscribers at the same time nationwide, quickly and easily. Create and manage groups online only. All TeamDC participants must also have a Nextel Direct Connect capable Sprint device with the TeamDC feature.
• Speakerphone: Hands-free mobile conversations are always available with the built-in speakerphone.
• SMS Text Messaging: Instantly send and receive SMS text messages across the room or around the country.

The Z400 by Samsung is now available in select markets at $99.99 with a two-year service contract and a $50 mail-in-rebate. It measures 3.7″ x 1.9″ x 0.96″ and weighs 3.5 ounces.