Verizon officially releases the LG Dare for $199

Verizon has officially launched the LG Dare VX9700 through its on-line web site and TeleSales division, despite some people being able to order it since June 24th. The Dare is the 3nd non-smartphone incorporating a touchscreen, to be released by this carrier, following the LG Voyager and Samsung Glyde, and is intended to compete directly with Samsung's Instinct and Apple's upcoming iPhone 3G.

Features include a 3" diagonal WQVGA touch-sensitive display with light sensor to automatically adjust brightness, 3.2MP autofocus camera and flash with face detection technology, VGA video recording, built-in photo and video editing capabilities, HTML Browser, 3.5mm headset jack, movie quality video playback from memory card, updated media player with equalizer and Rhapsody support, handwriting recognition, drag and drop contacts with a unique photo interface, multitasking, Bluetooth 2.1, accelerometer, EVDO Rev A, microUSB, and support for up to 8GB microSDHC memory cards. All of this is packaged into a device measuring 4.10"H x 2.20"W x 0.50"D and with a weight of 3.76 oz. Pricing is $199 after $50 rebate on a 2-year contract, $249 after $50 rebate on a 1-year contract, and $409 full retail.

*UPDATE* For a limited time, Verizon is including a FREE 8GB microSDHC memory card with Dare orders placed on-line with a $79 Nationwide Basic plan (1350 minutes) or $99 Nationwide Basic Unlimited plan.