The prototype phone Google has been using to demonstrate its Android mobile operating system has been spotted and reveals positive early developments for the Linux-based OS, according to a leak sent to Gizmodo. Virtually identical to the photo shown in official videos outside of its dark gray color, the full-keyboard smartphone’s version of the OS is reportedly very quick due to its light, Linux-based code; Windows Mobile by contrast is overly complex, the report says.

No hint has been given as to the original manufacturer of the prototype phone, though it is expected to be fellow Open Handset Alliance member HTC and may point to a modified or refined version of the handset as the first shipping Android device. The stock Android OS includes common phone features such as SMS texting as well as a full-view web browser and quick access to several Google-specific services such as Gmail and Google Maps. Shipping hardware should be available by the second half of 2008.