INQ Intros Twitter PhonesINQ Intros Twitter Phones

The makers of the so-called "Facebook phone" are at it again, as INQ Mobile has introduced a pair of "Twitter phones."

While smartphones are expected to grow at a rapid pace over the next few years, INQ is focused on creating low-cost feature phones that have tight integration with social networks and Web-based services. Additionally, the company's handsets are designed to minimize bandwidth needs, which could make them more attractive to mobile operators worried about their networks being overwhelmed with mobile data users.

The INQ Chat 3G is the company's first device with a full QWERTY keyboard, and its thin form factor is reminiscent of handsets like the Nokia E71x. Along with deep Twitter integration, the handset also has access to Facebook, Skype, free push Gmail, e-mail, and instant messaging. As the name suggests, the device will be able to use 3G networks for connecting to the Web, but it will also be able to use EDGE networks.

The INQ Mini 3G ditches the keyboard for a smaller, more traditional candy bar form factor. Both handsets can receive upgrades over the air, and can provide a high-speed wireless modem for computers. Additionally, the company is bringing out synching software that can integrate with iTunes for transferring and managing the handset's media files.

"We build phones that focus specifically on what people want to do most on mobile, and deliver it at a price point that's easy for consumers and profitable for operators," said Frank Meehan, INQ's CEO, in a statement. "We have completely broken the vice grip hold that high-end smartphones had on great mobile Internet experiences and made them available to everybody."

The handsets will hit the European markets by the fourth quarter, and the company said it is working on getting devices released in other markets, including the United States.

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