Samsung launches first Tizen phone

Samsung Electronics has launched the world's first smartphone powered by the Tizen operating system.

The Samsung Z will go on sale in Russia in the July-to-September quarter.

Most Samsung phones currently use the Android platform, but the South Korean firm has been working with chipmaker Intel to develop Tizen as an alternative operating system.

It is seen as a way to make Samsung less dependent on Android's developer, Google.

"It enables Samsung to hedge its bets much better compared to some of its rivals," Andrew Milroy, a vice president with consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, told the BBC.

"However, it is unlikely to make a significant dent on the Android market share."

The company will show off the phone at the Tizen Developer Conference, being held this week in San Francisco.

It did not disclose the device's price.

:story: BBC News