Analysts see Asia as the potential playground for Android-powered devices, claiming that the Google brand cachet will be enough to leverage the open-source OS into a new range of entry- and mid-level cellphones for the region’s new users.  IDC Asia-Pacific analyst Aloysius Choong, believes that the Google name has such broad appeal as to clinch sales with first-time buyers as well as provide a tempting upgrade option to those looking for a new smartphone.

“Asian users typically have higher demands. As we move toward 3.5G, especially with fixed-rate data service plans, more will get onboard the mobile Internet platform.  The more you use your phone [to access the] Internet, the more you expect in terms of extensibility, power and customizability” Aloysius Choong, IDC Asia-Pacific

HTC have a number of new Android-powered handsets in the pipeline for this year, and have revealed that they intend to target Asia shortly after launching in the US, while February’s Mobile World Congress is expected to be punctuated with new reference designs and market-ready cellphones that take advantage of the Google-backed platform. 

[via PHONE Mag]