HTC launches first AT&T-exclusive Android 2.1 phone

AT&T was the last of the "big four" U.S. mobile operators to start selling phones based on Google's Android operating system, and has only had a single Android phone available since March.

Currently, AT&T's only exclusive Android handset is the Motorola Backflip. However, the network could have had an HTC device powered by Android almost one year ago, "Lancaster" was reportedly scrapped, well ahead of AT&T's Android launch.

Today, HTC has finally brought an Android product to the popular carrier, which is additionally the first Android 2.1 device for the carrier.

"HTC Aria is the first of several smartphones in our Android portfolio to run the 2.1 platform," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets.

Specs:

• Android 2.1 with HTC Sense UI
• 600MHz Qualcomm MSM7227 processor
• 512MB ROM/384MB RAM
• 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen (320-480)
• 5-megapixel camera
• 2GB microSD card included
• Dimensions 4.1 x 2.3 x .46
• Weight (with battery): 3.8 ounces
• Battery: 1200mAh
• Quadband GSM (850/900/1800/1900), dual band HSPA (850/1900)
• Digital compass, WiFi, aGPS, HSPA 7.2

It's a small, modestly specced device that will be available on June 20 for $129.99 after $100 mail-in rebate and two-year AT&T service contract.