Vodafone launches HTC Desire in the UK

Rumours of delays unfounded, says mobile operator

The HTC Desire uses Google's Android operating system

Vodafone is finally shipping the HTC Desire to the UK today after widespread rumours that the UK launch would be postponed. The Android-based smartphone is available through retail site Expansys.

Although there were rumours that the Amoled touch-screen device had been delayed, Vodafone claimed the handset would meet its 8 April deadline and that it had in fact been able to ship some of its stock earlier than it had indicated to its customers.

"We started selling the device in our retail outlets last week, and sent out devices that customers had pre-ordered this week, which meant customers received them sooner," said a Vodafone spokesman.

3 Mobile has already said that it will be selling the phone from 20 April, but is only due to sell unbadged versions from that date.

At Expansys, the phone costs £439.99, or is free on a pay-monthly-contract.