Archos to launch new phone

Leading electronics firm Archos has announced plans to launch a new portable media player that can also be used as a mobile phone.

The company’s ultra-thin Internet Media Tablet (IMT) is set to feature Google’s Android platform and will also be able to playback high definition video, music formats and photos.

In terms of specifications, the device will includes a five-inch screen, battery power for up to seven hours of video playback and up to 500GB of storage space.

The chief executive officer and founder of Archos, Henri Crohas, said the new Android-supported device was a "historical opportunity".

He added that it combines "all the best of our IMTs with a phone in a single device delivering high quality video and a full web experience in true mobility".

Sony Ericsson recently unveiled a new mobile phone in its Walkman range of handsets.

The W395 boasts built-in stereo speakers and a two-megapixel camera.