The first Nextel iDEN Android smartphone has been announced: the Motorola i1.  Details of the new device are somewhat limited, but we do know it will run the Android OS, that it is compatible with Nextel’s Direct Connect service and that it will ship sometime this summer.

“As the first Nextel Direct Connect Android smartphone, Motorola i1 with Wi-Fi offers a powerful tool for our customers with access to thousands of applications in the Android Market,” said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development, Sprint.  “With rugged durability, a full touchscreen and 5.0 megapixel camera, Motorola i1 gives push-to-talk customers a compelling smartphone that can withstand some of the harshest environments.”

It is unclear whether the i1 will depend on Wi-Fi for data or if it will use Sprint’s data network for wireless connectivity.  The fact that the press release didn’t clarify this suggests that its mobile Internet options will be less than stellar.

Learn more about the Sprint Nextel Motorola i1 Android Smartphone…