Filed under: Handsets, Software, Samsung, Java, GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS

Contrary to previous beliefs, it looks like neither Orange nor HTC will have a part in producing the first “Googlephone,” and instead it seems that Samsung is slipping in the back door to steal the limelight. When the Ultra Edition 13.8 (formerly known as the Z720) got official a few days back, we noticed the relatively unexpected suite of Google apps swarming the mobile’s innards, and aside from the handset not exactly abiding by the Opera agreement that is supposedly falling into place, it seems a good fit for the first Google-infused mobile. Of course, the programs that come loaded are all available as free downloads on supported handsets, but it seems the European-bound 13.8 will be numero uno in what’s likely to be quite a lengthy list of Googled mobiles.

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BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

This close cousin of the ic502 lacks an external display and ruggedized housing, but is otherwise similar. Key features of this CDMA / iDEN hybrid phone include push-to-talk, speakerphone, Java, and location-based services.

Sanyo’s first high-end phone for the US with an internal antenna. This CDMA clamshell sports a music player, 2 megapixel auto-focus camera, and 1 GB of memory for storing music and photos. Other key features include stereo Bluetooth, EVDO high-speed data, a QVGA display, external music controls, and speakerphone.

This entry-level bar-style GSM phone offers a sleek design with internal antenna, a speakerphone, Java games, and MMS.