Bharti Airtel, handset manufacturer HTC and chip maker, Qualcomm launched a sub-Rs 10,000 (precise price Rs 9,990) 3G smartphone namely HTC Smart in the Indian market with the alliance aiming to make 3G smartphones catering to the mass market.

“HTC has always focused on setting the stage for new mobile experiences and the HTC Smart is clear differentor from touch phone and the result of customer feedback from all over the world for an easier-to-use, affordable smartphone,” said Peter Chou, Chief Executive Officer, HTC Corporation. “We’re excited to launch the HTC Smart with Airtel in India first and Qualcomm, a company known for its innovations. HTC Smart offers easy-to-use widgets, browsing and connectivity at an affordable price. The integration of HTC Sense brings an unparalleled smartphone experience for people looking to do more on their phone.”

The handset uses Qualcomm’s BREW platform and sports a 2.8-inch TFT-LCD touch-sensitive screen with QVGA resolution and is equipped with a 3.5 mm stereo audio jack along with a 3.0 megapixel color camera with fixed focus and flashlight.

“As the undisputed leader in the Indian telecom industry, Airtel is committed to constantly delighting its customers and offering innovations to enrich their experience. With the HTC Smart, Airtel customers will be the first in the world to experience a revolutionary Smartphone that is not only affordable but is also 3G-ready” said Sanjay Kapoor, CEO-India & South Asia, Bharti Airtel.

Initially the handset will be available in 30 cities of the country.

“Qualcomm is pleased to collaborate with HTC and Airtel to launch HTC Smart, which brings the 3G smartphone experience to the mass market,” said Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, chairman and chief executive officer of Qualcomm. “HTC Smart is the first smartphone using Qualcomm’s distinctive Brew MP operating system.  This platform, combined with the powerful HTC Sense technology brings a unique and compelling smartphone user experience to Indian consumers.”