HTC continued its strong support of the Google-backed Android operating system by introducing the Tattoo smartphone Tuesday.

The handset is also the first major Android smartphone to use resistive technology for its 2.8-inch touch screen. Devices such as the myTouch 3G and the Samsung Galaxy sport capacitive touch screens. Like the HTC Hero, the Tattoo will have the Sense user interface layered on top of Android to give users one-click access on the home screen to weather, stocks, Twitter, and other Web-based information.

The company is also emphasizing how customizable the Tattoo will be, as customers will be able to design and purchase multiple phone covers for the handset. Additionally, users will be download new software via the Android Market to augment preloaded programs such as Google Maps and Google Mail.

"Everyone wants their own phone to feel like it was specifically made for them," said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC, in a statement. "The Tattoo, with HTC Sense, represents an easy way to shape your own distinct mobile experience and really make it your own."

HTC's latest Android smartphone will be 3G-capable, and it will have Wi-Fi, assisted-GPS, Bluetooth, and expandable memory with a microSD slot. The handset also has a digital compass that can be used with augmented reality apps, and a 3.2-megapixel camera with autofocus.

The Android-powered smartphone will be rolled out in European markets at the beginning of October, and will be hitting other unspecified markets over the next few months. The company did not give an expected retail price, but the Tattoo is expected to be a relatively low-cost device.

The Tattoo's introduction is another sign that the Android operating system is gaining momentum. Google said it expects up to 20 Android-powered handsets to be released by the end of the year. Motorola will unveil part of its Android portfolio Thursday.

InformationWeek has published a 360-degree analysis of the first Android-based smartphone. Download the report here (registration required).