Vodafone reveals own-brand Android handset

Posted on 29 Apr 2010 at 09:19

Mobile provider Vodafone has announced its first own-brand Android-based smartphone, the Vodafone 845.

Available exclusively on the Vodafone network, the 845 is most definitely an entry-level handset: with a 2.8in low-resolution 240x320 touch-screen display, a 3 megapixel rear-mounted camera, and just 128MB RAM the hardware itself is certainly less than impressive. Internal storage is also fairly cramped at just 512MB - although the device is likely to support microSD cards for storage expansion.

The software, on the other hand, is bang up to date: Vodafone has chosen to offer Android 2.1, Google's latest mobile operating system, on the handset. With Google's own Nexus One being one of the only other devices currently on the market to run this version, it's a welcome change from the entry-level devices still being released with older Android versions installed.

The mobile provider has promised that the Vodafone 845 will have full access to both paid and free applications in the Android Store in all of the twelve countries it is planning to launch the device. In addition, the handset will come preloaded with Vodafone's 360 social networking software - plus access to the Vodafone Live portal. Google's Navigation sat-nav tool - released last week - will also be available.

Sadly, Vodafone has yet to offer a firm release date or information on expected pricing - but given the specifications of the device, it's likely to be made available free on a range of 18 month or two year contracts.

Author: Gareth Halfacree

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