Gizmondo, the new handheld platform currently in the process of being released in the UK, will be getting its very own trendy high profile spot, in London's chic Carnaby Street; a move which clearly hope will align their expensive new device with the ever-trendy Apple; whose ultra-modern stores inhabit some of the world's most notable and fashionable locales. Carnaby Street is the first store Gizmondo are planning, and it will be the firm's flagship store as they attempt to push the handheld into an increasingly competitive market.

The new store will open in the 'run up' to Christmas, and will "act as a showcase for the Gizmondo, software and accessories", allowing punters to check out the product, make purchases and even test future products. "We don't see this flagship store as to other retail. The store's primary function will be to promote the device and the brand as a whole, which in turn will drive more traffic to every retailer stocking Gizmondo," commented European MD Carl Freer.

Apparently, the Gizmondo officially began hitting retailers last week in the UK, and this innovative device - a close competitor to Tapwave's Zodiac - will offer gaming, messaging, music, movies, digital camera functionality, gaming via GPRS and of course Bluetooth. Its certainly a meaty little package then; though much depends on the software available for the device, its price, and of course the strength of upcoming big-name competition from the and the DS. We'll keep you informed.

By Luke Guttridge