3 UK is the first operator to integrate Facebook into the handset/device, with a “Facebook button” that will take users directly to the site. It will be part of an “ultimate handset”, which will be launched for Christmas, reports MarketingWeek. This is the first such operator to do that, and in keeping with Facebook’s huge popularity within UK…from 3’s perspective, it is amping up its focus on mobile internet, which will be supported by a series of ad campaigns.

Meanwhile, 3 has also launched a new version of Skypephone, with shipments to start August 27th. The new device gives users easy access to Facebook, Google (NSDQ: GOOG) and Windows Live Messenger and enables free Skype calls and IM. The new phone has added a new “carousel” interface, similar to what Sony (NYSE: SNE) has in its Clie PDA of yore. The switcher key on the side of the handset enables users to quickly move between applications from any screen on the phone. Details here.