Analysis on Facebook Phone INQ1: Examining the Meaning of Hutchison's Emergence as a Handset Manufacturer

This ROA Group white paper analyzes INQ1 phone, developed by INQ Mobile. The model is marketed as the world's most advanced social networking phone that offers a new user experience. INQ1 enables social networking, instant messaging, video sharing, Skype calling, and eBay trading on mobile phone within a low-cost price range. The handset was unveiled on November 13 in London, being the first product of INQ Mobile, a new vendor in the handset market. The company is a subsidiary of Hutchison Whampoa, Hong Kong based conglomerate that runs mobile operator 3 in Europe and Asia. INQ1 and the movements of Hutchison Whampoa have attracted attentions in the industry, since it could challenge such handset manufacturers as Nokia, Samsung, LG, Sony Ericsson, RIM and Apple in some markets.