INQ launches new Twitter phones

Hutchison Whampoa-owned handset maker INQ Mobile announced the release of the INQ Chat 3G and the INQ Mini 3G, two new "social phones" featuring an integrated Twitter application developed in close collaboration with the microblogging juggernaut. According to INQ, the Chat 3G--the firm's first qwerty keyboard phone--boasts always-on Twitter access, enabling users to send tweets and re-tweets via the web instead of SMS. In addition, a specially designed Twitter widget delivers updates directly to the device homescreen. In addition, the Chat 3G incorporates free push Gmail, eliminating push mail fees, as well as Facebook, Skype, email and IM applications. The INQ Mini 3G, meanwhile, is a slimline social mobile device offering Twitter, Facebook, IM, Skype and web-based email services including Hotmail, Yahoo Mail and Gmail.

Both new INQ phones feature plug and play HSDPA modems enabling high-speed wireless broadband on PCs and Macs. Moreover, the devices introduce seamless media syncing with PCs or Macs--the software, powered by doubleTwist, syncs music from iTunes and Windows Media Player as well as video and photos.

For more on the new INQ devices:
- read this release

Related articles:
3 unveils INQ's Facebook phone
INQ plans more handsets and looks beyond 3UK