Looks like we may have one less handset to get in the way of the Pre. Electronista reports that Sprint's Treo Pro, scheduled for Feb 15 (previously moved from Jan 25), has now been "delayed indefinitely". This comes unexpectedly but hardly a surprise, as anticipation for the Palm Pre has far overshadowed the Treo since it's announcement. The article also notes that some of the marketing materials for the Pro have already been delivered; but with a "TBD" release date, it's unclear as to when the CDMA handset will make it's way onto store shelves, if ever.
Earlier, Sprint's leaked EOL (End of Life) list stated that the Pro was to replace the 800W sometime between February 15 and April, at the time when the 800W would have been discontinued. In the document, the Pre is listed as replacing the 755P by May.
If true, Sprint can focus it's marketing might in making sure the Pre gets the attention it deserves.
What should Sprint's next move be? Sites like IklanGadget have already started a poll as to whether Sprint should still release the new device or not. Can the Pro, with Windows Mobile, stand a chance against the Pre and webOS? And for that matter, how many people do you know who are planning to upgrade to the Treo Pro?
Update: BoyGeniusReport has written a follow-up on the Treo Pro; apparently there is new target launch for the device - March 15. While this is still speculation, the reason may be that it "didn't pass Sprint's standard testing process". If this is true, then it would move the release date of the Pro much closer to that of the Pre.
Update #2: Palm Infocenter reports that the Treo Pro will be officially available on Sprint March 15. The device will be $199.99 with a two-year subscription (after a $100 instant rebate and $100 mail-in rebate, with an Everything plan with data or a $30 per month or higher data add-on). Full retail price comes in at $549.99 with no contract. Reasons for the initial delay were still unknown.
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