Motorola DEXT launching today

Orange is now offering the new Android based Motorola DEXT handset from free on qualifying contracts.

We knew it was set to launch this month, but an announcement from Motorola has confirmed that the Motorola DEXT is now available to new and existing customers, providing you can visit the new Orange Multimedia Store in Milton Keynes today.

A more widespread release follows tomorrow, through all other traditional retail channels.

The DEXT is an Orange exclusive, at least for the time being; and offers up a 3.1-inch touchscreen display, 5-megapixel snapper, 3G HSPDA connectivity, A-GPS and Wi-Fi.

OS-wise the DEXT runs on Google Android 1.5, which means that it comes with the usual host of Google goodies.

As well as touchscreen operation the DEXT also provides a sliding-Qwerty keyboard for its text-orientated tasks, but the real star of the show is the inclusion of the new Motorola MotoBlur UI which allows simultaneous updating of several social networking sites, customisation of the home screen, and email integration.

Pricing is unknown for 18-month contracts, but we can tell you that if you're willing to cough-up £34.26 for 24 consecutive months, then the handset itself will be absolutely free.