Affordable local mobile phone carrier, MetroPCS, today launched the first smartphone of the carrier – Samsung Code, also known as Samsung SCH-i220. It is kind of disappointing to learn that the Samsung Code runs on Windows 6.1 operating system, instead of the latest Windows 6.5 operating system. MetroPCS doesn’t mention whether the Samsung Code is upgradeable to Windows 6.5 or not, we doubt it does.

The Samsung Code feature a 2-megapixel digital camera, QWERTY keyboard, Stereo Bluetooth, 3G connectivity, full Internet browser, and a memory expansion slot that supports up to 32GB. Like other Windows phones, the Samsung Code is equipped with Microsoft applications, including contacts, calendar, tasks, notes, voice recorder and Windows Live. It supports ActiveSync technology for easy synchronization with PC and Microsoft Exchange Server.

“We are excited to add another smartphone to our lineup of the latest handsets,” said Roger D. Linquist, president, chief executive officer and chairman of the board of MetroPCS. “In a time when consumers want more from a phone than simply to talk or text, our customers will be able to take full advantage of the Samsung Code’s advanced features and services that will give them an enriched wireless experience. This is just another example of how MetroPCS is providing customers with more, all while maintaining the economical unlimited, flat-rate service that they can expect from MetroPCS.”

“Samsung Mobile is excited to launch its first Windows Mobile® 6.1 powered smartphone to MetroPCS customers,” said Paul Golden, chief marketing officer of Samsung Telecommunications America. “The Samsung Code gives users the ability to balance work and personal communication with a variety of applications and features.”

MetroPCS doesn’t mention its pricing. What we know is customer could add $50 rate plan to get unlimited talk, text and data, including emails.