HTC Touch HD: Now Here's Some Sexy Hardware!

[Jason Dunn]

<p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/spt/auto/1221494047.usr1.jpg" /></p><p>At the moment I'm typing this up, HTC has pulled <a href="http://www.htc.com/www/product.aspx?id=64790" target="_blank">the product page from their site</a>, so I suspect this wasn't meant to be launched quite yet, but I suspect it will be back soon. Pretty much all the <a href="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/news/show/90558/htc-touch-hd-makes-an-early-appearance.html" target="_blank">rumours we heard about the Touch HD</a> have proved to be true: a huge 3.8 inch screen with amazing 480 x 800 resolution. That's a stunning 246 ppi, which means incredibly crisp text, images, and user interface. What I'm curious about is how did HTC manage to drive that many pixels on the screen and still have it be snappy and responsive? My fear is that it won't be - let's hope I'm wrong. There's no indication of any 3D hardware acceleration, and the Qualcomm MSM7201a CPU at 528 MHz, while fast, isn't anything we haven't seen before - unless of course HTC managed to tap into the 3D acceleration that I've been told that Qualcomm chips offer.</p><p>At any rate, the rest of the specs look great: 5 megapixel camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack (YES!), 512 MB ROM, 288 MB RAM, quad-band GSM/GRPS, and 3G in Europe/Asia (us North Americans will have to wait for our version). On yeah, 802.11 b/g WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0, GPS, a 1350 mAh battery, and a microSD card slot for expansion. The Touch HD is an impressive 12mm thick - and for those keeping score, that's 0.3mm thinner than the iPhone 3G. HTC has really created something interesting here - and I bet with the larger size, the on-screen keyboard will be much easier to use. This is the first touch-screen device that has really tempted me to switch from a QWERTY device. I can't wait to get my hands on one! The full press release and a couple of images after the break. <MORE /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><em><strong>NEW HTC TOUCH HD RAISES BAR FOR MOBILE INTERNET AND ENTERTAINMENT</strong> </em></span></p><p><em>Large, 3.8 inch wide-screen VGA display, HTC TouchFLO 3D, desktop-class broadband browsing and a 3.5mm audio jack and more provide the ultimate entertainment combination</em></p><p><em>Taoyuan, Taiwan - September 16th, 2008 - HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile phone innovation and design, today unveiled its latest handset, the HTC Touch HD, an entertainment focused mobile handset that will transform how people experience multimedia on the move. Integrating a large 3.8 inch wide-screen VGA display (WVGA), a standard 3.5mm audio jack and a 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, the HTC Touch HD is the perfect device for multimedia fans.</em></p><p><em><strong>Shifting the boundaries of design and innovation</strong><br />The HTC Touch HD combines high performance capabilities with a stylish, sleek design that has made HTC a global leader in mobile phone design and innovation. Its large 3.8 inch WVGA touchscreen offers users stunning clarity and vibrant colours, providing an unrivalled experience when watching movies, browsing the Internet or even scanning through photos taken with the 5 megapixel auto focus camera. <br />The stylish new device also features HTC's beautiful TouchFLO^TM 3D user interface to provide quick and intuitive access to the people, messages and content that are most important. A standard 3.5mm headphone jack has also been designed-in, allowing consumers to use high-performance headphones with the device for the best possible sound quality.</em></p><p><em>"Today, Widescreen TV, Internet and video have become the standard so there is no reason to compromise when you leave the house, the Touch HD delivers that uncompromising multimedia and Internet experience," said Peter Chou, president and CEO HTC Corporation. "We are living in a time where the concept of entertainment has radically changed. The internet is so much more than just email and our customers expect to be able to access the Internet and high quality multimedia content no matter where they are in the world."</em></p><p><em><strong>Getting the most out of the Internet</strong><br />The large high resolution, widescreen display combined with download speeds up to 18 times faster than standard 3G, enables the HTC Touch HD to render websites quickly and in full-page width. This provides a comparable Internet experience to that of home broadband in terms of both speed and page layout. This true mobile broadband experience allows users to navigate more easily, leveraging the mobile internet in a variety of ways. For example, browsing to favourite websites, using Google Maps to find a restaurant for lunch, searching for and streaming video from YouTube or even catching up to the minute news, blog posts and video podcasts with the integrated RSS reader, will be more intuitive for consumers familiar with desktop browsing. </em></p><p><em><strong>No compromise </strong><br />The HTC Touch HD has been conceived for both business and consumer users alike, who demand style and performance and do not think the two are mutually exclusive. The HTC Touch HD is the ideal handset for people who are embracing the mobile multimedia shift but who do not wish to forgo quality, simply by being on the move.</em></p><p><em><strong>Availability</strong><br />The HTC Touch HD will be available across major European carriers in Q4 2008 and be introduced in other global markets shortly following. </em></p><p><em>Key Touch HD product specifications:<br />&bull; Size: 115 x 62.8 x 12 mm<br />&bull; Weight: 146.4 grams/5.164 oz with battery<br />&bull; Connectivity: Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900 MHzWCDMA / HSPA: 900/2100MHz. HSDPA 7.2 Mbps<br />&bull; Software/Operating system: HTC TouchFLO 3D with Windows Mobile&reg; 6.1 Professional<br />&bull; Display: 3.8 inch Wide Screen VGA screen (480 x 800 WVGA)<br />&bull; Camera: 5.0 megapixel with auto focus - Second Camera: VGA<br />&bull; Internal memory: 512 MB flash; 288 MB RAM<br />&bull; Memory card: microSD^TM memory card (SDHC^TM capable)<br />&bull; WLAN: 802.11b/g<br />&bull; Bluetooth&reg;: 2.0 with EDR<br />&bull; GPS: GPS/AGPS<br />&bull; Interface: HTC ExtUSB^TM (mini-USB and audio jack in one; USB 2.0 High-Speed)<br />&bull; Battery: 1350 mAh<br />&bull; Talk time: WCDMA: Up to 390 minutes*** / GSM: Up to 310 minutes*** <br />&bull; Standby time: WCDMA: Up to 450 hours*** / GSM: Up to 390 hours***<br />&bull; Chipset: Qualcomm&reg; MSM7201a^TM 528 MHz</em></p><p><em>About HTC Corporation<br />Founded in 1997, HTC Corporation (HTC) designs, manufactures and markets innovative, feature rich smartphone and PDA Phone devices.</em></p><p><em>Since its establishment, HTC has developed strong R&amp;D capabilities, pioneered many new designs and product innovations and launched state-of-the-art PDA Phones and smartphones for mobile operators and distributors in Europe, the US, and Asia. These machines are available as HTC devices and as products individually customized for operator and device partners.</em></p><p><em>HTC is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile device market. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com. </em></p><p><em># # #<br />The names of companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/spt/auto/1221494272.usr1.jpg" border="1" /></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/spt/auto/1221494324.usr1.jpg" border="1" /></p>

[Darius Wey]

Okay, sweet device, but what's with HTC's obsession with dual-band HSDPA? There ought to be one version of the Touch HD for the entire world, not one for each region.

On the bright side, good to see users now have the option of using a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio. I just hope, at the very least, it supports mic input.

[Jason Dunn]

Okay, sweet device, but what's with HTC's obsession with dual-band HSDPA? There ought to be one version of the Touch HD for the entire world, not one for each region.

Yeah, I agree - it always comes down to antennae...though there are more than a few devices out there that have world-wide 3G, and especially on a device like this (which is fairly big), you'd think they'd have the space?

I just hope, at the very least, it supports mic input.

What's the scenario where mic input is use? Making recordings?

[Darius Wey]

What's the scenario where mic input is use? Making recordings?

I was thinking more for hands-free use. A lot of people still prefer wired headsets to Bluetooth headsets.

[PdaAddict]

I wonder when (if at all) we will see this beauty here in the US. The screen specs alone would make it a killer device!!

[Damion Chaplin]

This is the first touch-screen device that has really tempted me to switch from a QWERTY device.

That's exactly what I've been thinking. I've been eyeing that Touch Pro since it was announced, but at this point, I don't think I could accept anything less than this HD. :D

[nmcclana]

Looks like someone heard my prayers! I can finally throw away all the 3.5 - 2.5mm adapters that I haven't already lost.

Honestly, probably the first Win Mo device in many years that sounds higher performance than my Axim X51v.

[cortez]

this thing looks hot! i'm sure it will be a pricey device... i'll be saving a few hundred bucks the next few months to get this; that is, if it continues to live up to the hype AND if if has NAM 3G. simply beautiful and sexy!!!

[azhiker]

It has really amazed me that if the Dell Axim X50V and 51V could be 3.7 nch VGA screen back four years ago, that current cell phones would have a similar screen instead of low-rez and small (most under 3 inchesi).

I do not agree that most users want small. Thin, yes, powerful yes, graphical and touch, yes, but so small (Touch Diamond) is just too small for VGA. HTC made the Axim for Dell so why did it take this long to make a phone that you do not need a magnfyng glass to read. Wth all the detail of WinMo 6.1 it only makes sense.

But I am sure this phone will be double the price of the Axim (non-phone). But at least there is progress. And, if I am going to spend hard earned cash for a Touch Screen phone, having more screen real estate simply makes sense.

Bring it on! But bring it reasonably priced and available through my carrier (of course)!!!

[Jason Dunn]

I wonder when (if at all) we will see this beauty here in the US. The screen specs alone would make it a killer device!!

I think we'll see if here, but not for a few months...it seems Europe and Asia get all the HTC love first. :(

[Lee Yuan Sheng]

If it's going to be a resistive touchscreen I'm definitely passing. They really suck as touch devices (unless you use your fingernails).

[cab124]

If it's going to be a resistive touchscreen I'm definitely passing. They really suck as touch devices (unless you use your fingernails).

I prefer a resistive screen. Sure, its not as sensitive as a capacitive screen, but I think that having the option of using a stylus makes it a worthwhile trade-off. So often, I like to jot down a quick note, or make a sketch, etc. Its nice to be able to do that with the stylus.

The Touch HD appears to be my ultimate device. The styling is absolutely beautiful (side-by-side, it almost makes the iPhone look dated), the screen looks amazing, the size and specs are perfect.

This kills me because I had just settled on going with the Sprint version of the Touch Diamond. Currently, I am using an old, beat-up LG cell phone and a Dell Axim x50v. They are in such bad shape that I seriously don't think they will last until the end of the month. I need a new device now!! I don't know if I can wait another 3 or 4 months.

I wonder if there is a good way to get a Diamond now, and then sell it and upgrade to the HD when it comes out.

[virain]

Whit all these goodies, how did HTC missed flash light?

[Tony Rylow]

Sure, it is a nice looking device with some awesome hardware, but the problem is that it is still running WM. I'd like to see HTC not come out with a whole class of new devices every couple of months with most of the same combinations of features forced into a different casing, and lets see them write their own OS. They have done some nice things with TouchFlo, and could surely create an awesome OS.

[saru83]

Amazing device, simply awesome.. but after being an iPhone user for some time, i cant see myself using WM anymore (although i have been a 4 year WM user before getting an iPhone)

If it had come out just a year ago i would have definitely been one of the first buyers, i might still get one just due to its beauty & completeness, just to satisfy an old dream.. lol

[palur]

I love most of the specs especially 3.8" screen. I was planning to buy Xperia but now I will wait perhaps. Does anyone know if it has TV-OUT feature?
Thanks

[Jason Dunn]

Does anyone know if it has TV-OUT feature?

I didn't see any mention of that, but I'll ask a contact at HTC and see what I can find out...

[Lord_Zelo]

I think I found my next device. This thing looks amazing. Can't wait. I've been using my Mitac Mio A701 for quite a while now and it has been great, but I'm really looking for something with the screen space this is supporting. I've been half tempted to get an iPhone and start developing my own apps for it, but if this keeps the specs its currently sporting, I'm in.

[TTown]

I haven't seen a picture containing a stylus yet. It looks like this may be a finger only device. With a screen this nice you probably won't need a stylus. I have the touch now and only use my stylus when using excel. It probably means it won't be a resistive touch screen either, which is a good thing in my opinion.

[cab124]

If this device is running WM 6.1, I don't see how it could be finger-only.

That might be a show-stopper for me. I prefer to have the choice of stylus or finger.

[Jason Dunn]

I haven't seen a picture containing a stylus yet. It looks like this may be a finger only device.

I'm 99% sure it will have a stylus...there's just no way they'd ship it without one, Windows Mobile isn't 100% finger-friendly...heck, it's not even 75% finger-friendly. ;-)

[onlydarksets]

If they released a CDMA version, I'd go back to WM for something like this, so long as the web browser and music/video players work as well as the iPhone.

[Jason Dunn]

OK, I got a response from HTC:

1) It doesn't seem like there's any TV out capability, but that's not 100% for sure...my contact is still checking

2) No sign of USB host...but no HTC devices have USB host, right?

3) There is a stylus, it's in the bottom right corner, the same place as the Diamond

[cab124]

This video shows the stylus...

http://www.wmexperts.com/articles/touch_hd_in_moving_pictures_an.html

[TTown]

Nice video. You don't have to speak french to take in the HD goodness!!

[palur]

OK, I got a response from HTC:

1) It doesn't seem like there's any TV out capability, but that's not 100% for sure...my contact is still checking

2) No sign of USB host...but no HTC devices have USB host, right?

3) There is a stylus, it's in the bottom right corner, the same place as the Diamond

Thank you Jason. HTC Advantage has usb host capabilities. It would have been a complete replacement for laptop (as far as I am concerned) had this funtastic device had TV-OUT and USB host features. I think Iphone and Android seem to have stimulated HTC to go for a bigger screen after prolonged 2.8" screen models. I love the screen.
Xperia has TV out but smaller screen and HTC HD has bigger screen but no TV out. Grrrr!
Hmmm!