Sharp brings high end Android 2.2 clamshell to Market

Despite the seeming predominance of touchscreen-only devices, there are many among us that just love the clamshell form factor. But, unfortunately, smartphone makers don't perceive a sufficient fanbase to warrant clamshell devices in all markets. And RIM's BlackBerry Style 9670 and Pearl Flip 8230 aren't right for everyone.

But leave it to China to get the device we're yearning for. Sharp has released the SH7218U, known as the SH-01B in Japan, which is a surprisingly powerful Android 2.2 clamshell. It is powered by a Qualcomm MSM7227 600MHz processor, and features 512MB of RAM and 512MB of ROM, a microSD slot, and Wi-Fi.

The SH7218U also features a 3.4-inch 480x854 pixel ASV touchscreen that swivels around to lay screen-side-up. And the front screen is a 1.4-inch 192x64 pixel OLED display for caller ID and phone status. But the real gem of the device is an 8-megapixel camera with an image stabilizer and LED flash.

Sadly, given the unique form factor, the Android Market and Google Mobile Apps aren't yet supported on this device, but there are a number of custom apps targeted to the Chinese market. It is available in China for 5200 Yuan, or US$800.