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Kyocera Wireless Corp. today announced a new version of the Kyocera Smartphone Portable Keyboard developed specifically for the upcoming Kyocera 7135 smartphone (see "Kyocera Gets Colorful with Smatphone Sequal").

Developed in partnership with Think Outside, the company said the Kyocera Smartphone Portable Keyboard provides the same size, feel and response as many of the best notebook computer keyboards, while providing seamless operation with special shortcut and command keys.

A new feature of this keyboard is the ability to compose, send and receive email messages with the Kyocera 7135 during both data and voice calls. For the first time, Kyocera said it is possible to continue using the keyboard while receiving email messages or talking on the smartphone. In addition to offering quick text entry for emails, the keyboard provides the ability to type meeting notes, memos or other documents, enter contact information, and access and navigate the Internet.

Closed, the Kyocera Smartphone Portable Keyboard measures 3.6 inches by 5.1 inches by 0.8 inches. Open, the keyboard measures 13.8 inches by 5.1 inches by 0.44 inches. Weight is approximately eight ounces. The keyboard includes a connection cable, and both fit into a neoprene carrying case. The smartphone can be charged while typing on the keyboard.

U.S. versions of the Kyocera Smartphone Portable Keyboard are scheduled to ship in the fourth quarter of this year for a list price of $99.99 from Kyocera. An upgrade kit for keyboards purchased for the older QCP 6035 smartphone is slated be available on the Kyocera smartphone website.