Internet company Sina, which is behind the popular Weibo micro-blogging service, is apparently set to offer an Android device this year, optimised to offer one-click access to its applications and services. A prototype smartphone has been designed and budget plan submitted, with the project now awaiting the approval of the board of directors.
Online media and games company Shanda is also said to be working on an Android-based device, with tests underway on hardware from several vendors. This device will be "oriented at games and literature," and will provide easy access to products from the company.
Finally, e-commerce player Alibaba was reported to have completed an acquisition of handset maker Tianyu Communication Equipment, which uses the K-Touch brand. The companies have already worked together to offer a device, the AliCloud smartphone, of which 1 million units have shipped.