HTC, global mobile maker, has unveiled its first Windows Phone offerings — the stunning Windows Phone 8X and 8S at a regional launch in Singapore recently. HTC is no stranger to the Windows Phone platform, having gained popularity in the early 2000s with its popular line of Windows 6/6.5 devices. The 8X and 8S however, marks a fresh new beginning with the all-new Windows Phone 8 platform and a close collaboration with Microsoft.
How close the collaboration with Microsoft? Close enough for HTC to use the ‘Windows Phone’ moniker in its product name. Now that’s commitment and clever branding. Move aside, Nokia.
HTC continues the unique design language found on its flagship One X and just announced One X+ devices. The perfectly sculpted, unibody design that not only looks spectacular, but also feels great in the hands.
With the svelte chassis, HTC also brings new exciting colors to complement Windows Phones’ innovative Live Tiles. The Windows Phone 8X will come California Blue and Graphite Black; Windows Phone 8S by HTC will be available in Fiesta Red and Atlantic Blue.
Powering the 8X is a Qualcomm S4 1.5Ghz dual-core processor offering superior performance and response. It features a bright, vibrant 4.3″ HD resolution Super LCD 2 display, protected by none other than Corning’s Gorilla Glass 2.
The 8S on the other hand features a bright 4″ Super LCD, protected by Gorilla Glass.
The success of the Android-powered HTC One X can almost be single-handedly be attributed to its power-packed 8MP rear camera, one of its most touted and loved features. HTC continues to push its photo and video taking prowess in the new 8X smartphone with the introduction of a 2.1MP, f/2.0 aperture, 88° ultra-wide angle front-facing camera that allows high resolution picture-taking and 1080p video capture.
The rear camera sports a familiar 8MP sensor with backside-illumination (BSI) for improved low-light performance, along with an f/2.0 aperture, 28mm lens and the dedicated HTC ImageChip. A physical shutter button offers quick and easy capture of spontaneous action, even if the phone is locked.
HTC also continues to integrate Beats Audio, which provides superior audio experience. The 8X also offers a unique audio amplifier powering the 3.5mm audio jack and speaker.
The 8X and 8S come with a 1,800mAh and 1,700mAh rated batteries respectively. Average by today’s standards but Windows Phone 8, through our experience with various devices is less power hungry and more energy efficient that other mobile OSes out there in the market currently.
With Windows Phone Store and Xbox Live, users will be able to enjoy the latest videos, music and games. There are currently over 120,000 apps available on the Windows Phone Store with over 100 new apps added every single day.
Availability & Pricing
The Windows Phone 8X by HTC will be available in mid November 2012; and the Windows Phone 8S by HTC will be available in early December 2012. Recommended retail price: Windows Phone 8X by HTC (RM1,799) and Windows Phone 8S by HTC (RM999).
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