If you’re looking at getting your first Android smartphone but you’re tied by costs, Vodafone have a new handset for you – the Vodafone Smart.
Today Vodafone have announced the Vodafone Smart – successor to the dinky Android 2.1-toting Vodafone 845. The Smart will be a Pay as you go only handset thanks to its low price point, and will bring Android 2.2 (FroYo) functionality on the cheap.
A low price point will be coupled with a range of different colours to make the Vodafone Smart appealing to teens and kids with parents on a budget. Vodafone say it will be available in “cool monochromes”, “bold brights” and even bespoke graphic designs. Users will also be able to really make their phone stand out by creating custom covers on the web. Vodafone also plan to release exclusive covers for Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter as well, just in case there wasn’t already enough choice for cases.
Speaking about the new Vodafone Smart, Vodafone Terminals Director said “More and more Vodafone customers are enjoying the benefits of smartphones which currently account for over 40% of the phones we sell in Europe. Continuing to push the boundaries through our own-brand range, the Vodafone Smart is a new smartphone concept. It takes the higher end mobile internet experience and packages it for the, its range of covers and accessories making it a fun fashion statement. Available on pay as you go plans, and on the fast, reliable Vodafone networks, the Vodafone Smart is a great step-up into the world of mobile data.”
Adding to the custom feel, Vodafone will be preloading the Smart with additional software as well as homescreen links to Social Networking sites and apps such as Facebook, Twitter and their own Prepay Manager app for easy credit topups.
With Android 2.2 on board, users will have access to apps like Gmail, Google Maps and the Android Market. Of course, access to the Android Market will give users a huge catalogue of paid and free apps to choose from. Hardware-wise the Smart packs a rear camera with zoom, 3G, Wi-Fi, Blutooth and a 2.8-inch QVGA screen.
The Vodafone Smart is expected to start selling in the next month or so, billed as an early summer release. It will initially go on sale in the UK, Germany and Italy before coming to other European countries, and is expected to retail for around £80-£90.
Source: Vodafone