Samsung formally announced the availability of the Blue Earth today, a touchscreen phone designed with the environment in mind.  What we like about the device is despite its "eco-friendly" moniker (which, until now, has been synonomous with "boring"), the Blue Earth doesn't skimp on the features.  Offering HSDPA 3.6 Mbps in the 900 / 2100 MHz spectrum (read: European 3G bands) and EDGE/GPRS  850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 MHz, a 3-inch touchscreen, 3.2-megapixel camera, and stereo Bluetooth v2.1, it's ready to rock out of the box.

Crafted from Post Consumer Material (PCM), the Blue Earth features "Eco Mode," which allows Bluetooth, screen brightness, and backlight duration to be set to energy-friendly levels.  What's more, the device includes "Eco Walk," which allows the user to see the reduction in C02 emission by walking versus driving (measured in number of trees saved).  Though it comes with an energy efficient charger, the phone offers a solar panel on the back for an alternative charging option.

The Blue Earth will be available in Sweden in October, followed by France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Portugal, and other European and Asian countries in the coming months.  Could we see a US version?  It's entirely possible.  In the meantime, pick up one of the European Blue Earth devices, but remember - 3G won't work in The States.