Google’s new T-Mobile G1 ($179) is the first phone to run Google’s new Android mobile operation system. It may be the first real competitor to Apple’s iPhone. Like Apple’s product, it’s a serious handheld computer with a clever touch-based user interface. Similar to Apple’s App Store for the iPhone, the G1 will be able to access the Android Market for 3rd part apps.

The phone sports a 3-inch touchscreen, a slide-out QWERTY keypad, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, and a 3-megapixel camera. It will be sold in the U.S. starting next month by T-Mobile, for $179 with a two-year contract.