The company normally behind the scenes – or rather, behind the handset – is set to launch its own handset on 2 September.
Huawei has previously manufactured devices for network providers, such as the T-Mobile Pulse Mini. However, it is branding its next phone the Huawei U8150, and the company claims this handset will be one of the first to operate on the Android 2.2 platform straight away.
The affordable Android comes with a 2.8 inch capacitive screen and a 3.2-megapixel camera. This isn’t bad for a low-end phone, especially the capacitive technology as it’ll ensure a smoother experience as you’ll only need light touches to navigate the phone’s features. And a 3.2-megapixel camera, while not what you’d expect from some smartphones, is pretty good for a budget device – after all, the iPhone 3G S only has a 3.2-megapixel snapper onboard without a flash.
The U8150 also features Bluetooth, GPS and Wi-Fi support, and is powered by a 528MHz processor. Running on the latest Google Android OS means you can turn the phone into a wireless hotspot, as well as enjoy all the Google goodies available including Maps, Mail and browser.
Huawei has increased its profile recently, selling 5.9 million phones worldwide during Q2 this year, compared to 2.5 million in Q2 2009. PC World reports that Roberta Cozza, principal analyst at Gartner, states both “Huawei and its Chinese competitor ZTE have become more aggressive in the smartphone segment with lower-cost products, either working with operators or pushing their own brands.” The companies will likely struggle in the high-end smartphone market, competing with the likes of Apple and its iPhone 4, Samsung and its Galaxy S and Nokia and its N8, “ but should be more successful in the growing lower-end segment of the smartphone market.”
The new Huawei is expected to launch on 2 September, and Huawei U8150 deals should be available in the UK shortly afterwards. The company has said the price will be “very attractive” and the rumoured amount is £100. Are you impressed by this budget Android? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
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