Motorola Karma targets the Facebook generation

A new mobile phone has been launched that combines a range of modern web options, which its creators hope will make it popular with younger users.

The Motorola Karma is equipped with fast and easy access to a host of social networking facilities, including links to sites like Facebook Twitter and MySpace, as well as support for Yahoo! and Windows Live Instant Messaging.

Announced by the manufacturer this week, the handset also makes using such online portals simpler with a full qwerty keyboard that slides out from underneath its screen.

In addition, 3G connectivity ensures a more rapid and reliable connection to internet-based services and the firm also claims the Motorola Karma is versatile enough to tackle a number of other tasks.

Jeff Miller, vice-president of mobile at the company, states: “Today’s savvy mobile phone users are looking for more from their devices than just an easy way to text – they want to update their social networking status, instant message multiple friends, make calls and of course text.”

The phone will join others in the Motorola range that include the ROKR, RAZR and the recently-launched Aura, which was backed by a marketing campaign featuring England footballer David Beckham.

For those who want to take advantage of the new Karma – but live in an area where mobile reception is poor – an announcement from Vodafone this week may also be of interest.

The network unveiled a new system called the Access Gateway, which can be plugged in to a broadband line to “significantly” boost signal strength and 3G connectivity.