14 DAY TRIAL // Optus Australia and Huawei have just announced the launch of the budget Android-based smartphone Ideos X1.
The major carrier will start offering the handset from July 1 on pre-paid for only $99, but the handset will be shown at the 2011 Huawei product showcase that will take place tomorrow.
Although Huawei stated that the Ideos X1 feature an updated user interface, there's no telling how much carrier bloatware the phone will bundle, if any.
However, it's certain that the handset will be delivered with Android 2.2 (Froyo) on board. The Chinese handset manufacturer has yet to announce any plans to upgrade this one to Gingerbread, but it is highly unlikely.
“The IDEOS X1 is the perfect choice for consumers wanting a smartphone that gives them quick and easy access to all the apps they love, without draining their wallets,” said Huawei’s Head of Marketing, Mark Treadwell.
Furthermore, the phone is equipped with low-performance Qualcomm MSM7225 that is clocked at 528 MHz, which would be more than enough for Gingerbread.
In addition, Huawei Ideos X1 packs 256MB RAM, 512MB ROM, as well as microSD card slot for memory expansion (up to 32GB).
With only a small 2.8-inch QVGA capacitive touchscreen with 240 x 320 resolution, the entry-level smartphone only appeals through reduced size and weight.
Other highlights of the phone include: a 3.2-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi connectivity and HSDPA (7.2 Mbps) support.
“We're very pleased to be offering our customers an affordable and highly impressive Android Smartphone. Devices such as the X1 from Huawei really demonstrate the range of smartphone options which are available on the Android platform, as well as the quality handsets which are available across a range of price points for both pre-paid and post-paid customers,” added Gavin Williams, the Optus Consumer Marketing director.
On related news, the Ideos X1 has been recently launched in Portugal as Optimus Stockholm, as well.