SIM unlocked GSM Palm Pre 2 now available for $449.99

I made some judgement Tweets when I heard about the upcoming Palm Pre 2 because it looks a lot like the existing Pre Plus and I didn't think it had enough updates to warrant consideration. If you read this blog, then you know I am a sucker for new phones and a long time Palm fan so when I saw the news today that GSM unlocked models could be purchased directly form HP for $449.99 I jumped on over and ordered one for myself.

There are a few differences between this model and the Pre Plus, most significantly being that it runs webOS 2.0 (see the PreCentral coverage for more on this update). It also has the following improvements: 5 megapixel camera 1 GHz processor Glass display Improved asthetics

This model will work with the 850/1900 bands for 3G, which means 3G for AT&T in the USA. I plan to still use it via EDGE with T-Mobile to start off with. I know it isn't the greatest piece of hardware, but the OS is fantastic and I want a device to stay in touch with it, much like I do with the HTC HD7 and Windows Phone 7.

I understand that developers also can get a $200 coupon to help offset the cost of this model. A version should be coming to Verizon in early 2011, but if you are like me then you may not be able to wait either.