This  just in …

VIRGIN MOBILE USA DEBUTS SECOND GENERATION OCEAN

New Ocean 2 Incorporates Broad Range of Mobile Content, Social Media and GPS Features on 3G Network

Virgin Mobile USA Also Extends 7PM Nights & Weekends to Contract Customers

WARREN, N.J. – Virgin Mobile USA (NYSE: VM) has announced the first contract 3G handset in its 2009 line-up, the long-awaited Helio Ocean 2 by Virgin Mobile.  A sleek, soft-edge dual slider, the new Ocean 2 boasts slimmer lines and a larger screen than its predecessor.   With easy access to popular messaging and social networks and sites, the Ocean 2 by Virgin Mobile will be on sale for $149 at www.virginmobileusa.com beginning February 12.

The handset will also be available at select retailers. The Helio Ocean 2 is produced exclusively for Virgin Mobile USA by Personal Communications Devices, LLC (PCD).     Virgin Mobile USA is also taking this opportunity to introduce two new benefits to its contract voice plans that align with the carrier’s no annual contract offerings:

Beginning February 12, all contract customers will have Unlimited Nights & Weekend calling starting at 7 PM, which is two hours earlier than many other carriers.  Virgin Mobile USA no annual contract customers already enjoy 7 PM Nights & Weekends. · In addition, Virgin Mobile is eliminating the $5 charge for unlimited mobile to mobile calling.

“The original Ocean was one of the first high-end, 3G mobile phones that consumers could afford.  With the sequel, we are expanding Virgin Mobile USA’s offerings to include contract plans and delivering a fully connected device packed with everything you could ask for,” said Jonathan Marchbank, chief operations officer, Virgin Mobile USA.  “The Ocean 2 is a powerful combination of voice, features and data at a great price.”