Helio on Thursday unveiled its first GPS-enabled phone, which would allow users to track their location, or the location of their friends via a Samsung-produced handset and Google maps. The phone, called the "Drift," is available immediately from the company and its partners.

GPS services have become quite popular in recent months. Both Verizon and Sprint offer their own applications, and other carriers are said to be working on similar solutions. However, Helio seems to be taking a much more personal approach with its offering.

The Buddy Beacon service would allow a Helio subscriber to locate a friend who also subscribes to the service. Functionality like this is already available in South Korea, where Helio part owner SK Telecom operates.

"We're staying true to our mission of bringing advanced wireless technologies from Korea to the U.S. so Helio members can experience an entirely new wireless world," said Wonhee Sull, President & COO of Helio.

The "Drift" phone, which retails for $225 USD, will feature a 2.12-inch display, Bluetooth, 2.0-megapixel camera, and multimedia support. Additionally, the phone has 128MB of internal memory with the capability to expand through external MicroSD cards.

The Google Maps service would also include live traffic conditions and support for aerial imagery, much like the desktop version of the application.