Google phone to hit UK before Christmas

Whether it can challenge Apple's reign on this year's "most wanted" list remains to be seen, but for the time being all eyes are on Google and T-Mobile, which has signed an exclusive deal for the handset.

Google claims that the G1's distinct advantage over the iPhone comes from its Android system. It will offer the system for free to any handset manufacturer  or wireless carrier that wants it.

The G1 includes Google's search application as well as other Google software including Gmail, Google Maps and YouTube.

Furthermore, Android's "open source" platform means that anyone will be able to create applications to use and personalize their phone. These applications will be available for download anywhere on the web.

Physically, the G1 features a touch-screen much like the iPhone, a slide out "Qwerty" keyboard, a thumb trackball and 3-megapixel camera.

It also features a rich HTML email client, which syncs email, calendars and contacts from Gmail as well as most other mail services.

Jim Hyde, chief executive of T-Mobile UK, said:  "Today, we increasingly use many different ways to keep in touch - from simple calls and email, to instant messaging and status updates on social networks. The T-Mobile G1 is a unique mobile, designed with the new possibilities of online communication in mind.

"Customers can tailor their phones with access to a variety of innovative applications.  We're thrilled to offer this exciting breakthrough that gives people unlimited freedom to communicate they way they want to - it will change the way we use our mobiles."

Earlier today Amazon announced that its MP3 music store will be preloaded on the G1, offering access to more than 6m rights-free songs for download.