iDEN one foot in the Grave?

Sprint announced that it will launch CDMA handsets with Nextel Direct Connect early next year. This is not a hybrid CDMA / iDEN technology, but rather a compatible Push To Talk technology using the CDMA network which Sprint successfully tested late last month. Sprint said these handsets will come in a variety of styles, from ruggedized to sleek, and a variety of manufacturers. Sprint will continue branding their walkie talkie service Nextel Direct Connect as these new CDMA handsets will be able to work with iDEN handsets as well as each other. Sprint will also add new features to Direct Connect with these phones, including a single number for voice and PTT as well as PTT voicemail.