Google has introduced a new smart-phone that will be directly available for consumers to purchase online.

The phone, dubbed the Nexus One, is a first for the 11-year-old search engine. Having designed and sold its own consumer hardware device, it could provide Google with a viable challenge to Apple's popular iPhone. Google said on Tuesday that the phone will run the 2.1 version of its Android operating system software.

The Nexus One will has a 9.4 centimeter touch-screen display, is 11.5 millimeters thick, and weighs 130 grams. Consumers in the US will be able to purchase the phone for 179 dollars with a one year contract, and 529 dollars for an "unlocked" phone.