Rook smartphone joins own-brand Harrier and Osprey.

EE has launched the UK’s cheapest 4G smartphone, called Rook.

The device costs £39 for existing EE customers and £49 for new customers and is available immediately from all EE stores.

Available on pay-as-you-go plans, the device is also offered to EE corporate customers.

Running Android 5.1 Lollipop, the device carries a 5 MP camera, a 4 inch high resolution display screen and 8GB internal memory.

It is powered by a 64 bit MediaTek 1GHz Quad-Core processor and carries a 1,500mAh battery.

EE has targeted the low-cost market with its own-brand devices. The Rook is the latest in the series, joining a roster including the Harrier and Osprey series.

According to the mobile operator, 44 percent of UK pay-as-you-go customers spend up to £50 on handsets; this will be the only 4G device in this price category. EE has traded on its 4G network extensively in its marketing.

Sharon Meadows, Director of Devices at EE, said: "At EE, we believe everyone should have access to 4G and the experiences it offers on the go.

"The Rook provides a great 4G smartphone at a compelling price – allowing even more people to enjoy the benefits of our superfast mobile network from high speed web browsing and downloads to gaming and streaming."