A new touchscreen device designed to rival Apple's iPad system is being launched by BT.

The broadband provider used its company's latest strategy day as the platform to unveil a prototype version of the new product, which is designed to make home phone use more interactive.

According to the Guardian, the systems have already been trialled among a select few in Cardiff, while more widespread tests are set to take place over the next year.

Gavin Patterson, Chief Executive of BT Retail, said there is growing evidence that people want to use phones in "a different way".

He added: "We have seen that with smartphones outside the home. So we have been developing a concept around how you get that sort of capability into an in-home environment."

Broadband providers including O2, Vodafone and Orange recently unveiled details of new data price plans they are offering for use with Apple's iPad.