China Mobile to launch OPhone Android handset

Largest Chinese operator China Mobile is planning to launch a 3G Android handset this quarter, according to Reuters.

The handset is apparently named OPhone, although whether that's a codename or actual title remains to be seen.

The report suggests that Lenovo is making the handset for China Mobile, and that it's in the final testing stages. It looks set to be the first Android handset available in China.

It's part of a wider rollout of Android in Asia, with rumours late last year of plans in Japan and South Korea. That said, these are all just rumours for the moment.

Mobile games publishers will be keen to see Android launch in the region, offering them a new distribution channel for their titles. Meanwhile, it should see more developers from China and its fellow Asian countries supporting Android.