A mobile network exec has stated that the popularity of Android will continue to grow next year with as many as 30 new Android handsets coming from Taiwanese makers along with more application contests by mobile operators across Asia reports pcworld.

Roger Chen, the VP of Far EasTone Telecommunications, the 2nd operator in Asia to launch the Acer Liquid smartphone has stated that in the first half of 2010 between 20 and 30 Android packing smartphones from the likes of HTC, Acer, Asustek and more, along with a new Android application contest in the region will boost use of the Android operating system.

Far EaTone has been hoping Android based handsets would help in the battle against rivals Chunghwa Telecom which offers the iPhone and Taiwan Mobile who offer BlackBerry handsets in Taiwan.

Chen however, declined to comment on any specific Android smartphone or which companies would be manufacturing them because of certain nondisclosure agreements.