BenQ turning to single-brand handsets

BenQ will turn a page in its cellphone business this summer with three new models, sources within the company say. Though the company has just launched the 3G-capable SF71 (pictured) under the BenQ-Siemens hybrid name, the company is planning a quick change of direction that will see the as yet unrevealed E72, M7, and T51 handsets launched solely under the BenQ name alone -- already reflecting the breakup of the partnership between the Taiwan-based company and Germany's Siemens earlier this year. Other phones with the BenQ-Siemens label will phase out by the end of the year, the insiders claim.

The three new phones are expected to appear later in August and will be delivered first to BenQ's Taiwanese home territory, though releases in Europe are very likely as well. US releases may be possible for some of the models depending on their focus and network support. [via DigiTimes]