Vodafone enters the Android smartphone market

MOBILE NETWORK OPERATOR Vodafone has joined the Android fray with its first branded handset to feature the operating system.

Vodafone, which already offers a range of Android-based handsets, is preparing to launch its own 845 handset unit, which it said combines the impressive operating system with affordability and an 'outstanding experience'. The 845 uses Eclair, the latest version of Google's mobile browser.

The handset has a 2.8-inch screen and includes connectivity options ranging from WiFi to Bluetooth and including GPS and 3g/HSDPA. It also has a a 3.2 megapixel camera and 500MB of built-in memory.

"In February we launched the world's cheapest handset. Today we are again breaking new ground. I'm proud to be announcing the '845', Vodafone's first own branded Android smartphone," said Patrick Chomet, group director of terminals at Vodafone. "It runs the very latest Android 'Eclair' software and shows our commitment and ability to take high-end trends and make them an affordable option for many."

HTC is also readying some new Android based phones, and according to a report in the FT is getting ready to 'aggressively expand sales' through the use of the OS.

The FT, which requires a subscription, said that HTC is planning to increase shipments of such phones by fifty percent over the next three months, putting the number of new handsets it has out there up to 4.5 million.

Vodafone will release seven other handsets in the near future, including three that come with the Opera Mini brower pre-installed, and an ultra low cost selection that amongst other things include QWERTY keyboards and built in solar chargers.

"Our aim is to offer our customers the best choice of compelling mobiles as well as the best-in-class experience of new services over Vodafone's reliable network," added Chomet.

The Vodafone 543 and 547 are so-called 'trend influenced' handsets and bring things like touchscreens to a lower price bracket. Vodafone said that this would let a larger customer base enjoy such features and choose among a variety of pretty colours.

More serious users may appreciate the 350 and 345 handsets, which though low cost, include a full QWERTY keyboard for messaging. The slightly better spec'd 350 also has WAP access for email, while both have FM radio as well as a calculator and currency converter. µ