Motorola launches its first Android handset

The Cliq automatically syncs conversations, contacts and content

As expected Motorola has released its first mobile phone using Google's Android operating system.

The Cliq is a 3G smartphone with a Qwerty keyboard and 5-megapixel camera, and will be sold via T-Mobile in the US. Separate deals will be announced worldwide.

Motorola will be looking to the phone to revive its fortunes in the mobile market after a series of disappointing quarters. The company has said it will be making a major push into handsets based on Android.

"We are pleased to announce our first Android-powered device in partnership with T-Mobile US," said Sanjay Jha, chief executive of Motorola Mobile Devices.

"Motorola Cliq with Motoblur differentiates the Android experience for consumers by being the only smartphone that automatically syncs conversations, contacts and content, and delivers a solution that's instinctive, social and smart."

Motoblur automatically synchronises data between Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and Gmail, along with work and personal email. The system can be used to link into news feeds, and will synchronise with Google Calendar automatically.

The data is stored on dedicated Motorola servers and, in the event of the phone being lost, the handsets can be wiped remotely and the data synced to a new phone.