Telstra has announced it will launch its third Android smartphone, the LG Optimius. First unveiled at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the LG Optimus smartphone was originally named the GT540 and is targeted at consumers who are buying their first smartphone.
The LG GT540 runs the 1.6 version of Android, has a resistive 3in touch screen, plays DivX and Xvid video files and is aimed at a "youth orientated audience," according to LG.
"With Google Android–powered smartphones growing in popularity, the LG Optimus provides customers with an ultra-affordable way to get in on the action," said Telstra Executive Director of Mobility Products, Ross Fielding.
The LG Optimus provides full access to the suite of Google services offered with Android smartphones including Google Calendar, YouTube and Gmail. It also has access to the Android Market for third-party applications and features LG's dedicated social-networking app that combines Facebook, Twitter and Bebo account updates on the home screen.
The LG Optimus is available for $0 upfront on Telstra's $49 Cap Plan, which includes 200MB of data and up to $400 worth of standard national calls, SMS and MMS for 24 months. The Optimus smartphone will also be sold outright for $504.
