Sony Ericsson, the world's leading cellphone manufacturer, announced Tuesday the launch of its first smartphone, to support China Mobile's TD-SCDMA network.

The Sony Ericsson A8i features a 3.5-inch touch screen with multimedia mobile broadcasting functions to deliver high-definition visual effects. It also provides signature entertainment applications which is linked directly with the entertainment download service of China Mobile, the nation's largest mobile phone operator, to provide a wide range of local music to customers in China, company officials told a product briefing held in Beijing.

In addition, the new phone supports both TD-SCDMA, or China's domestically developed 3G networks and WLAN connections.

"China is a hugely important market for Sony Ericsson and we are committed to maintaining our strong position and driving growth by continually introducing new and exciting products into this market," Bert Nordberg, president and chief executive officer of Sony Ericsson said.

Huidi Li, Assistant President of China Mobile, said demand for smartphones are on the rise, and our customers are continually asking us to provide them with innovative, feature-rich products.

He added the Sony Ericsson A8i is a testament to the combined expertise of both companies and the first of its kind to support the TD-SCDMA network.