SK Telecom to launch eight Android system-based smartphones in Korea to quell the iPhone craze

SK Telecom, South Korea’s largest mobile carrier will offer eight Android system-based smartphones in the second quarter, as it aims to quell the iPhone craze and lure smartphone customers by counting on Google’s mobile operating system. SK Telecom’s Android models are manufactured by a slew of global handset makers. The eight models will be from Samsung, LG, Pantech, Taiwan’s HTC, Sony Ericsson and Motorola.SK Telecom has been placing its bets on Google’s mobile operating system, as it sees the Android eco-system — encompassing application developers, handset makers, telecom carriers and users — will gain larger traction with its openness.

Unlike Apple, which does not supply its iPhone operating system for other handset makers, handset makers could use Google’s Android as a free-of-charge mobile operating system for their smartphones.SK Telecom will also offer HTC’s model based on Windows mobile system and a BlackBerry model. Among the forthcoming products, HTC, maker of Google’s first phone Nexus One, will offer Desire to South Korean customers next month. Samsung’s ambitious smartphone, Galaxy S, will be offered in June. Recombu tells what is Blackberry.