Mobile handset vendor HTC has unveiled a new device that claims to be the world’s first integrated GSM/WiMAX handset. Known as the ‘MAX 4G’ the device will launch on Russian WiMAX operator Scartel’s ‘Yota’ mobile WiMAX network later this month. MAX 4G is based on the Windows Mobile 6.1 platform, features a touch screen display and will be supported by a range of Yota services including mobile TV, video-on-demand, online gaming, music and mapping. It also supports GSM calls using a SIM card from any Russian mobile operator and when both callers are Yota subscribers, the call will automatically be routed as a VoIP call over the Yota mobile WiMAX network. Information on pricing and availability has yet to be disclosed.

Scartel announced in September that it had installed 150 2.5-2.7GHz base stations in Moscow and 80 base stations in St. Petersburg and plans to have deployed 1,000 mobile WiMAX base stations across the two Russian cities by the end of the year. Network deployment is funded by Telconet Capital Limited Partnership, which has invested US$300m in the project. Yota is broadcasting 14 free mobile TV channels at launch – rising to 23 channels by the end of 2008 – and offers an online music catalogue of more than 50,000 titles.