HTC Hero
When the HTC Hero and it’s new Sense UI were introduced in June, the question on everyone’s minds was when is this thing coming to the US. Little by little, bits of information and speculation came and it was basically a given that the Hero would first be coming to Sprint. Today they made it official, the Hero (well a trimmed up version, without the awkward chin) will be coming exclusively to Sprint this October.
The device first made headlines because it was the first phone to feature a truly customized build of Googles open source operating system, Android. HTC’s Sense UI was the biggest feature of their custom Android implementation. The new user experience is based around three (somewhat out there) principles: “Make It Mine, Stay Close, and Discover the Unexpected.”
The gist of these principles is to make the look and feel of the OS customizable, to make it simple to connect with friends and family and share your life with them, and to find new ways to experience a phone. The software also features all of the usual Google integration into Android with Gmail, Google Maps, Google Search, and Youtube. Another big selling point is the inclusion of Exchange ActiveSync email, which is crucial for any potential business users.
On the hardware side of things the Hero features the following specs:
- 5 MP camera & camcorder
- Bluetooth 2.0
- An accelerometer, digital compass, and light sensor
- SD card slot (expandable up to 32GB, with 2GB included)
- Capacitive multitouch screen w/ virtual keyboard
- 802.11 B/G WiFi
The Hero also comes with the Sprint exclusive video packages like Sprint TV, NFL Mobile Live, and Nascar Sprint Cup Mobile. It will be available this year on October 11 for $179.99 (after a “$50 instant rebate” and a $100 mail-in rebate) with a 2 year service agreement.
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One Comment
Beautiful phone, BUT………..leaving aside the iPhone, the problem marketing such an attractive– as everyone should know by now — is the inflexibility of the terms of sale.
“[The Hero] will be available this year on October 11 for $179.99 (after a $50 instant rebate and a $100 mail-in rebate) with a 2 year service agreement.”
So. outside of the prodigals, the immediate market are those drawn in by the phone whose contracts with Sprint or other carriers has or will soon end. Sort of an industry-wide, self-inflicted wound that stifles competition and development