T-Mobile shows off Dash 3G smartphone

The Dash is the first T-Mobile handset to use the operator's 3G network in the US

T-Mobile has unveiled its newest smartphone model, the Dash 3G. The device uses Windows Mobile 6.1, and features a full Qwerty keyboard as well as support for Wi-Fi and a new trackball system.

Other features include support for Outlook, a new glossy black casing and GPS connectivity.

The Dash will be the first from T-Mobile in the US to use the company's 3G wireless broadband network.

"As millions of families prepare to hit the road this summer, T-Mobile is offering our first 3G-enabled Windows Mobile smartphone to help customers stay connected, organised and travelling in the right direction," said T-Mobile US director of product marketing Travis Warren.

"We are excited to offer the power and style of the T-Mobile Dash 3G with high-speed internet access thanks to T-Mobile's rapidly expanding 3G network."

The new handset is the latest addition in what has become a busy summer in the smartphone market. T-Mobile is also preparing to launch the iPhone 3G S in much of Europe.

Palm, meanwhile, has entered the market with its own big summer release, the much-anticipated Pre.

T-Mobile has also announced plans for a number of new devices based on Google's open-source Android smartphone software.