I’m talking about battery replacements. Today US Cellular launches a Battery Swap program, leading the industry in something new and first of it’s kind. US Cellular Customers can come in to any US Cellular store and swap a dying or dead battery for a fully charged one, and it’s FREE. They are the only wireless company to do so. To be eligible, the phones have to have been purchased in the last eighteen months. No more than four swaps per handset are allowed in a month. For more concise details, click here to go to the US Cellular Battery Swap Program and while there are simple things that you can do to prolong battery life, this program is outstanding. Hopefully more wireless providers will take the cue and follow.

[via: BlackBerry Rocks & Mobility Digest]

Rumor has it that US Cellular is getting ready to pick up some hot new data devices including the BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8230. Apparently USC will launch RIM’s first CDMA Pearl Flip mid-June. No word on pricing or exact release dates yet but stay tuned. Meanwhile we’re trying to dig up info on when Verizon will launch the Pearl Flip as well.

US Cellular is the first carrier in the United States to launch OS 4.5 for the CDMA Curve 8330 and Pearl 8130. They have launched OS 4.5.0.66 for both units and its now available for download on USC’s BlackBerry download page. Keep in mind you don’t have to have a USC BlackBerry you can find details on how to install it here.