Latest smartphone launch: HTC’s new devices – HTC 8X and 8C
New smartphone launches seem to be like buses – you wait ages for one to arrive, then three come along all at once.
First Nokia revealed its new 920, then Apple’s much-anticipated iPhone 5 was launched. Now, it is the turn of HTC.
Images were released yesterday showing the HTC 8X in a striking yellow version and a sleek black option.
While details have been scant so far, Microsoft’s chief executive Steve Ballmer has described HTC’s new devices – the HTC 8X and 8C as “beautiful”.
The two new handsets are expected to launch at the beginning of November – which will mean they will beat Nokia’s new Lumia smartphones to the shelves.
Previously, American multinational Microsoft, which has its headquarters in Washington and was founded by Bill Gates, had described Nokia’s new Lumias as the best examples of Windows 8.
Microsoft’s new version of Windows will launch on October 26 and the firm believes the new smartphones, which run on the system, will help it gain market share in smartphone and tablet use.
Just how the phones will operate is being kept strictly under wraps for now though, with mobile manufacturers, including HTC, Nokia and Samsung banned from revealing any details until the official launch date.
But, whatever the small print, Ballmer said the bigger picture is a great move for consumers.
Speaking about the new HTC launches, he said: “Pairing these beautiful new HTC phones with our Windows Phone brand is a big milestone for both of our companies and our partnership.”
He said by joining forces, Microsoft, which is the world’s biggest software maker, and HTC were offering “customers a simple choice and a truly unique experience.”
And Peter Chou, HTC’s chief executive seemed equally delighted by the results of the partnership. He said Windows Phone was “competitive against any other smartphone platform in the world”.
“We’ve been inspired by Windows Phone 8 to create new smartphones that give the platform the iconic design and personality it deserves,” he added.
The strength of the pairing is clear to see when you consider that the new HTC’s colours mirror those of Windows Phone 8’s live tiles, which are the means by which you see notifications on your home screen. So, you’ll be able to pick up the new HTCs in a choice of California Blue, Graphite Black, Flame Red and Limelight Yellow.
So far, we also know the new devices are going to be great for those who like to download music onto their smartphones, with the HTC 8X including separate amplifiers for headphones and speakers and its cousin, the 8S featuring better audio software.
There’s also an upgraded front-facing camera, which is now 2.1mp and has an 88-degree wide-angle lens and a rear camera with a 28mm lens, giving you flexibility when taking your snaps.
While devices will be available from all major networks and operators, the downside will be they will not include 4G options at the outset, but there may be an upgrade further down the line.
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