Hutchison Whampoa’s new mobile handset subsidiary INQ Mobile is expected to next week unveil its first handset, reported to focus on online social networking site Facebook. Initial reports of the new venture arose last month with the emergence of the company’s website that promised “social mobiles.” The latest reports – including one from ITProPortal – suggest Hutchison’s UK network operation 3 is holding a launch event next week (November 13).

The ITProPortal report adds that 3 UK last week uploaded a page on its website promising users that their new offering “will change the way you use Facebook on your phone.” The device is also expected to support HSPA technology. The UK launch will reportedly be complemented by a similar launch in Australia. An Unstrung report notes that the INQ phone – to be co-branded with mobile operator 3 – will cost operators around US$200. In addition, Unstrung says INQ Mobile claims it has worked closely with Facebook on launch of the handset, with the integration process going beyond what the social networking company has done with other devices like RIM’s BlackBerry.