Much after India got its symbol of currency, the mobile handset manufacturer Lava International has launched out a new handset that has a key with the new currency (Rupee) symbol.

The company announced the launch of this handset on the eve of Independence Day. Being tagged as the first mobile handset to flaunt the rupee symbol key, the phone is touted as the next innovation on a novel platform.

As S N Rai, co-founder and director, Lava International, commented on the launch of the phone, that the consumers need not necessarily type Rs or Rupees while typing an e-mail or SMS, but can directly press the rupee symbol key.

Even TVS electronics has also introduced its latest keyboard with a Rupee symbol installed in it.

This frenzy began with Mangalore-based Foradian Technologies, which made the new Rupee font available for download for the consumers in less than a two weeks time after its official launch.

Interestingly the new rupee symbol is inspired by the Devnagiri 'Ra' and the Roman capital 'R'. The sign has no stem and two parallel lines at the top.

With IT companies catching on this trend fast, which gadget will flaunt the Rupee sign will be worth waiting.