This time around, the phone will have a strong emphasis on personalization. The handset is based on the touchscreen HTC Magic, but T-Mobile has added several hardware and software changes. The phone will be available with multiple shell cases with different designs.

The phone will have a Microsoft Exchange client that will allow users to receive corporate e-mail and calenders while on the go. The phone also will come preloaded with the Sherpa application, a location-based program that customizes itself to the user’s preferences and recommends nearby shops, restaurants and other locations.

The myTouch 3G also will come with an App pack that will give users recommendations for other programs in the Android market.

The touch-screen handset is powered by Android 1.5, which includes an onscreen keyboard and video-recording capabilities. The phone has integrated Wi-Fi and EDGE and can use T-Mobile’s 3G network. The phone also has Bluetooth and GPS, as well as integration with Google‘s Web services, such as Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Maps and YouTube.

The myTouch 3G will be available for $199 with a two-year contract, putting it in direct competition with AT&T‘s iPhone 3GS.