If you’re looking for a fun little internet-connected media player to hack around with the SmartQ V5 has always been one close to the top of the list. It’s not exactly leading-edge in terms of processing power but, like the SmartV7 that Coldsun has, it’s loaded with multiple OS’ and the SmartQ brand has quite a strong and active community following.

Pocketables are reporting that the V5 version is now available via Eletroworld for $180. Add customs and postage to that and you’re looking at about $220 (150 Euros) which makes it worth taking an even closer look at. (Note: We bought a SmartQ7 at Eletroworld earlier this year. The ordering process was a little convoluted but the device arrived without problems.)

Features

• Processor: 600MHz
• Screen size: 4.3-inch,800 X480 pixels (Resistive Touch)
• Memory: 256MB DDR2 RAM
• Storage: 2GB Flash Memory
• Operating System: Ubuntu Linux,WINCE 6.0 and Android
• Language: Chinese/English
• Memory card slot supporting up to 32GB microSD memory cards
• Wireless: supports WiFi 802.11b/g, Bluetooth
• Output: HDMI 1.3 (1080P)
• Connectivity: 2.0 USB HOST supported to connect the high-speed EDGE, HSDPA network adapter or mobile phone
• Warranty: One year

Compared to the original SmartQ 5 the differences include double the RAM, multiboot OS (Android, WinCE, Linux) and digital video out via HDMI.

We’ve yet to see any reviews on the SmartQ V5 but we’ll definitely be looking out for them as this looks like a good value little device for the tinkerers out there. People looking to dive into a fully consumer-ready Android MID should be aware that this isn’t a full Google-apps-enabled Android build. (No marketplace, no maps, no sync.) Fingers crossed for an ARM A8 version with full Google Android support in 2010.

All SmartQ V5 specifications and links now being tracked in the product database.

Via Pocketables.

Related posts:

1. SmartQ T73G Android Reader with 3G for $280. Test soon.
2. Pocketables: SmartDevices SmartQ V7 launched in China
3. SmartQ T7 3G Unboxing and Overview, Video.
4. SMiT at CES with 7″ Android Tablet
5. 7-inch MIDs, Reading, and SmartV7 Review Soon