Sprint has released the world’s first Android-powered smartphone with Nextel Direct Connect for $149.99 (with two-year service agreement and after a $50 mail-in rebate) through Sprint’s online, telesales, and direct sales channels. All remaining Sprint sales channels will offer the Motorola i1 on Sunday, Aug. 8th. Boost Mobile also offers the Motorola i1 for $399 without a contract.

With solid body construction that meets military specifications for protection against dust, shock, …