One of the last remaining barriers to broader consumer acceptance to prepaid phones in the United States is now crumbling as prepaid cell phone companies are introducing more and more sophisticated handsets that can be embraced by younger text- and Web-oriented wireless customers, according to New Millennium Research (NMRC) executive director Allen Hepner.

Hepner, who has overseen two major U.S. surveys in the last two years on consumer attitudes about prepaid phone service, said that the arrival of the more advanced handsets should help prepaid phone service connect with recession-weary U.S. consumers who have not already considered prepaid as an alternative to more expensive and restrictive long-term contract-based cell phone service.

Mplayit, the new mobile app store on Facebook that is transforming the mobile app discovery experience, today announced that the full catalog of over 3,500 BlackBerry applications is now available to its growing audience of consumers and fans on the Facebook platform. Mplayit is now the first cross-platform social app store where consumers can find, try, buy, and share apps for iPhone, BlackBerry, and Java-powered mobile devices.

“BlackBerry outsells the iPhone month after month, but most BlackBerry users still have a hard time finding great apps,” said Michael Powers, Founder and CEO of Mplayit. “We help them tap into their social network to discover apps they’ll love and recommend to their friends.”

High-tech, “high-touch” and with high marks for innovation, Jelfin, LLC - an emerging name in smartly designed, inventive computer accessories with distinctive design aesthetics - today announced the launch of its revolutionary computer mouse. The cleverly designed, ball-shaped mouse is ensconced in a soft, luxe gel covering that hugs the entire surface area and sets a new standard for comfort. Users cup their fingers naturally around the ball rather than extending them outward for a more natural, ergonomic feel. The Jelfin(TM) Mouse retails for $34.95.

“The Jelfin Mouse will appeal to those who possess a sharp eye for style, a demand for the finest materials, a desire for individuality and those who won’t compromise on quality and affordability,” said Nick Pajic, Jelfin president and CEO. “What cashmere has done for the sweater, we think the soft, gel cover has done for the mouse. We believe customers are going to love the look and feel - and be very pleased with its performance!”

Nokia ( NOK) today announced the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition, an entertainment hub that combines mobile broadcast TV (DVB-H), social networking, music and gaming in one compact 3G device. With mobile broadcast TV consumption on the rise - by 2012 there will be over 300 million people worldwide watching TV on their mobile phones - this handset offers easy access to anyone wanting to enjoy an exceptional live, on-the-move TV experience.

Nokia vice president Mark Selby said, “The introduction of the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition responds to the arrival of DVB-H broadcast mobile TV networks in new markets and offers an affordable device for new and existing customers alike. Customers are increasingly watching a variety of programmes on their mobiles, such as drama programs, news and sport, for a longer period of time. The Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition has the sound and image quality to hold audiences captive.”