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HTC adds that the phone's 4.3-inch display, with an expansive resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, also allows users to type using the onscreen keyboard without the assistance of a stylus. As videos (see later in this story) make clear, capacitive touch may be used not only with HTC's custom applications -- known collectively as "HTC Sense" -- but also with standard Windows Mobile applications.
HTC, whose chief executive Peter Chou recently said the Windows Mobile-based HD2 will not be getting an Android equivalent, announced today that the phone will come to the U.S. in early 2010, when it will be offered by "a major carrier." The device is already shipping in Europe, will be available later this month in Taiwan, and should be available throughout Asia by the end of the year, the company added.
According to HTC, the HD2's Sense user interface provides a "people-centric" approach that makes it easy to switch between calling, texting, email, or interacting with social networks. The company touts a dedicated Twitter client known as HTC Peep, and says pictures taken with the HD2's five megapixel camera may be quickly shared via either Twitter or Facebook.
Sense also leverages the HD2's onboard sensors, HTC says. For example, a proximity sensor is used to prevent false screen touches when the phone is picked up to answer or make a call, and a light sensor automatically adjust screen brightness, the company says.
Another novel feature on the HD2 -- which may or may not be neutered when the device comes to the U.S. -- is a built-in WiFi router. According to HTC, the HD2 can share its 3G Internet connectivity with a notebook computer or other devices via WiFi. Internet sharing is also possible via Bluetooth or a USB cable, the company adds.
The HD2 is also said to include a digital compass, GPS, a five megapixel camera with autofocus, an FM receiver, and even a dual-LED flashlight. Processing power is provided by Qualcomm's Snapdragon, which includes both a 1GHz ARM-based applications processor and a 600MHz DSP (digital signal processor). The HD2 includes 448MB of available RAM, 512MB of flash storage, and a microSD expansion slot, HTC adds.
As well
as offering a bevy of HTC software, the HD2 also employs Windows Mobile 6.5, which went on sale last month. The operating system upgrade includes the Windows Marketplace for Mobile online store, voice recognition, mini-programs known as widgets, My Phone cloud-based backup, a new "honeycomb" Start menu, plus a new home screen that shows new e-mails, missed calls, and calendar appointments. The mobile operating system upgrade also includes an updated Internet Explorer 6 web browser (right), though the HD2 offers a customized version of Opera Mobile 9.5.
Features and specifications listed by HTC for the HD2 include the following:
Further information
More information on the HD2 may be found on the HTC website, here.
