Sharp has launched an Android-based smartphone, the IS03, which will be available in Japan in late November under wireless carrier KDDI’s Au mobile phone arm. The phone will come with a host of features, including Osaifu-Keitai (mobile wallet) functionality, and low-power mode enabling users to see status, missed calls and other information without an active backlight. However, the most notable feature is its IPS 960×640 display aimed at challenging the Apple’s ‘Retina Display’ reign.

Sharp IS03 will not be sold outside Japan, but considering that it features support for Global Passport CDMA, it may work on networks in the US as well, and elsewhere. Look-wise, the 138gm Sharp IS03 phone is impressive, also reminds one of the iPhone sometimes. Technology-wise, because it is based on Android 2.1, it will restrict users from using Flash Player 10.1, although the phone will still have Flash Lite.

Sharp IS03 Features

• Android 2.1 Éclair operating system
• 9.6-megapixel snapper with auto focus & image stabilization
• 1GHz Snapdragon QSD8650 processor
• Advanced Super View (ASV) matching iPhone’s retina display
• 3.5-inch screen (960 x 640 pixel resolution)
• Support for 802.11b / g Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as with Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR capabilities
• Global CDMA connectivity, which means that we might even see it working on networks in the US.
• 1-Seg mobile digital TV
• 512MB RAM and a 2GB micro SD card preloaded (expandable upto to 32GB)
• FM transmitter