Google has announced that all handsets running Android 1.6 will now be able to get?Google Maps Navigation?for free.

The news, which was announced on Monday, opens up the free GPS software beyond the Android 2.0 operating system and currently the only handset available, the?Droid by Motorola.

The new release, which aims to take on services from TomTom, Garmin and Navigon will, as long as you have a data connection, let you route your way around the US using the same Google Maps functionality, however, with a more traditional style GPS experience.

The release also includes the new Layers feature, which lets you overlay geographical information on the map. View My Maps, transit lines, Wikipedia articles about places, and more says Google.

If you have a phone running Android 1.6, you can download an updated version of Google Maps from Android Market to use Navigation today.

Android 1.6 phones in the US currently include the T-Mobile mytouch 3G,?the G1 and the HTC Tattoo, as well as the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10. However handsets like the HTC Hero, Droid Eris, Samsung Moment and the Samsung Behold II all run Android 1.5 so won't be getting the new feature.

Google Maps Navigation is in beta and is currently available in the United States.

Some features of Android 2.0 are not available on Android 1.6, for example, the ability to use the "navigate to" voice command as shown in our demo video.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Android Google Google Maps Navigation GPS Samsung HTC T-Mobile mytouch 3G T-Mobile G1 with Google mobile phone Car And GPS Sony Ericsson Motorola

Google Maps Navigation comes to Android 1.6 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:58:52 +0000

While Vodafone got the exclusive on the new HTC HD2 for a few short weeks, the high-end Windows phone is now available in the UK through O2.

O2 has offered various HTC-made phones before, but the HD2 marks the first time the operator has allowed an actual HTC-branded device live on its network.

The new HD2 Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone offers a 4.3-inch multi-touch display, a speedy Snapdragon processor, a 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA.

"The HTC HD2 is the first HTC branded phone to be sold on O2. We love the large screen and combination of Windows Mobile 6.5 with HTC Sense", says Steve Alder, general manager devices for O2 in the UK.

"We are proud to be the home of smartphones and the HTC HD2 adds a new dimension to the range of devices we offer to our customers".

Full tariff details are to be confirmed while the website is being updated, but O2 tells us the HD2 will be avialable for free on a ?45 per month, 18-month contract - which is a fiver dearer than Voda.

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Related links:

• Feature - HTC HD2 funky features fun

Tags: Phones Mobile phones O2 HTC HTC HD2 Tariffs Windows Phone

O2 offers HTC HD2 free on £45 per month tariffs originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:50:40 +0000

Here are the nominations for Best Mobile Phone in The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009.

The following products were chosen because we feel they represent the best phones on sale in the last 12 months that are available in the UK.

The nominations are:

HTC Hero

iPhone 3GS

Palm Pre

BlackBerry Bold 9700

HTC HD2

A notable commendation should also go to the Sony Ericsson W995 and the Nokia N900.

Now in its 6th year, the Pocket-lint Gadget Awards, thought to be the longest running in the UK, pick the best gadgets and gizmos from the last year released in the UK.

Pocket-lint's vigorous vetting process means that all the gadgets up for nomination have to have been seen by a member of the Pocket-lint team (so far over 600) and have to have been available in the UK between December 2008 and December 2009.

The awards, voted by a panel of leading gadget journalists from around the world, including the staff from the Pocket-lint team, will decide the real must-have gadgets of the year, rather than those simply deemed cool or anticipated, being the definitive guide for consumers looking to buy gadgets.

Winners will be announced at an Awards evening in London on Monday 7 December.

If you would like to order tickets to the event please visit our awards event page.

Public voting will start on Wednesday 18 November.

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Related links:

• Link - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Apple Palm BlackBerry Sony Ericsson Nokia

Best Mobile Phone 2009 nominations originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

Google has published the source code of Android 2.0 - the next version of its operating system, and the one that appears on the recently-released Motorola Droid. Until now, only Motorola and HTC had access to the source, but Google has just opened it up for everyone.

The software update features multiple email accounts, exchange support, new address book functionality, a combined inbox, better search, an improved camera, an improved keyboard, a better browser, and more useful calendar, as well as Bluetooth 2.1, better media playback, and more options for developers.

Hackers have already ported the update over to the G1, the very first Android handset to be released. The team behind the port - Cyanogen - said that the handset runs "really well, fast and smooth" with the 2.0 software. They haven't yet got audio/video playback working, but it's likely not to be far away.

For those unwilling to hack their handsets, though, you'll need to wait for a patch from your phone manufacturer. Expect one to be on the way - we'll let you know when they're released.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google Android HTC Motorola Operating Systems G1

Android 2.0 source code appears originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:34:56 +0000

The HTC HD2 is now available on Vodafone in the UK, as we'd reported it would be.

The big-hitting Windows Phone handset is available for free on ?35 per month, 2-year contracts. There's also a ?40 per month, 2-year effort if you need more bundled minutes.

If you'd prefer an 18-month contract then you'll have to stump up ?40 per month while again there's also a ?45 per month option that offers more free minutes.

There are no 12-month plans and there's no pay as you go option from Vodafone right now, so it looks like if you do fancy this high-end mobile you're going to have to get the pen out and sign away a fair chunk of your mobile life, as is becoming the norm with high-end handsets.

The new HD2 Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone offers a 4.3-inch multi-touch display, a speedy Snapdragon processor, a 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Vodafone HTC HD2 Tariffs

Vodafone offers HTC HD2 free on contract originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:13:21 +0000

While our brows are still furrowed by T-Mobile's assertion that the Windows Mobile 6.5 HTC HD2 will offer Android Market apps, we're happy to report the device is due an imminent launch on Vodafone.

Those hoping to get their hot little hands on the new smartphone with its 4.3-inch multi-touch display, speedy Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA need look no further than Vodafone with an announcement expected within the next 24 hours.

O2 is also said to be due to offer the device via Mobiles.co.uk for a minimum of ?40 a month on a 2-year contract if you want the handset gratis, so it will be interesting to see at which price point Vodafone will be placing the high-end handset.

We will bring you all the official news - including pricing, tariffs and exact availablity - as soon as we hear it.

UPDATE: It's now official - from free on ?35 per month, 2-year contracts.

Related links:

• Feature - HTC HD2 funky features fun

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Vodafone HTC HD2 Windows Mobile Windows Phone HTC Rumours

Vodafone to offer HTC HD2 first originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:22:17 +0000

The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Best Mobile Phone nominations are probably the ones we've all been waiting for. The smartphone industry is ablaze and every year we see more and more impressive handsets as the mobile becomes so much more than simply the telephone it once started out as. They are our pocket computers, our access terminals, our windows on the world and it's time to let us know which ones deserve that extra special praise for their impact in 2009. Which one gets your vote?

Android phones

After a very slow start Android is all the rage right now. Until a matter of months ago, HTC dominated with last year's G1, as well as the Magic - which is likely to be in the running - and the HTC Hero, on which it's very hard not to place a heavy bet for the winner of this award. That said, of late we've seen some really impressive contenders with an awesome come back from Motorola with the QWERTY based DEXT and the pure touch Droid.

Never ones to miss the boat, Samsung brought out the Galaxy i7500 and the imminent arrival of the LG GW620 brings the other Korean giant in on the action as well. The T-Mobile Pulse aka Huwaei's Android effort and the HTCs Eris and Tattoo have also shown that consumers can get a piece of Google's mobile OS at a reasonable price, while the launch of the impressive looking Rachael, or Sony Ericsson Xperia X10, makes Nokia's absence look all the more obvious.

Palm & Apple

The shotgun method is not something you'd associate with these manufacturers' approaches to the mobile phone industry in 2009. Nonetheless, between them they've had arguably the biggest impact of all. We were blown away by the Palm Pre at CES in January with its new OS, slideout QWERTY and beautiful touchscreen - even if we did have to wait the best part of a year for the thing to turn up in the UK - and the Apple iPhone 3GS - once Stevie J and friends had decided how to spell it - did just enough to keep itself on top.

More recently, the Palm Pixi has arrived as the lite version of the Pre and doubtless we'll see more webOS devices in the future. So, will Apple be following suit with an iPhone mini all of its own? One for 2010, perhaps.

BlackBerry

The other mobile cult all of its own is the church of RIM and its beloved BlackBerrys. The company has seen an impressive rise in market share and profits in 2009 with its more consumer facing approach. Handsets like the Curve 8520 and the Bold 9700 have proved as popular as their family heritage would suggest and even the second installment of the BlackBerry Storm seems finally to be going down as its name would have us believe. The only question is whether these recent announcements have left it too late for us all to rave about.

Other QWERTYs

If the OS and the touchscreen have been the biggest mobile trends of late, then the move to QWERTY keyboards has to be the next one down. While they used to be the preserve of RIM and a select few business models, the rise of the smartphone with e-mailing, browsing and IM needs has caused a greater desire for ease and speed of typing on our handsets. Most of the mobile makers have caught onto it and you can now buy the things on PAYG or just cheap contracts with basic phones.

The youth messenger market can now get hold of finger tappers like the LG GW300, the pink Samsung B3310 and Samsung Genio/Corby TXT if you're not man enough for the colour scheme on the other model. Go one step up and there's the slightly more mature LG GW520, the Nokia Surge/6760 and the Nokia E72 - the upgrade to the hugely popular business model of 2008. Last of all, there's the QWERTY to end all QWERTYs with the recent launch in the States of the TwitterPeek handset with the kind of keyboard that'll give your desktop a good run for its money.

Windows Mobile

With Android the rising star of 2009, it's easy to forget that Microsoft launched a new version of its mobile OS as well. Windows Mobile 6.5, or Windows Phone, may not necessarily be the choice of the consumer but the manufacturers can't get enough of it and, to give it its dues, it is getting better. HTC is one of the platform's largest supporters, despite the affiliation with Android, and both the HTC HD2 and the HTC Touch Diamond 2 have turned out to be very impressive implementations of the system.

Both the Sony Ericsson Xperia X2 and Toshiba TG01 have taken the custom UI approach to Windows Phone and come up with a couple of handsets to make the consumer's choice that much harder, while Samsung launched an entire update to the OMNIA family with four whole models, each suited to a particular user.

Until the last few weeks, Acer has been solely focused on the Microsoft mobile OS as well with a mass of interesting, if not entirely refined, set of phones and, of course, the LG GM750 is a quick toe in the water for the Korean company while it makes up its mind which way to jump from its own S-Class interface - indeed if it intends to jump at all.

Nokia

It's not been the best of times for the company that still remains the number one in the mobile phone market. Yes, its presence in the developing world is incredible but the Finnish giant's grip on the West has slipped. With Symbian OS the platform of choice, there's still be some noteworthy releases including the headline N97 and N97 mini as well as the super snapper that is the N86.

The business E range is probably one of the strongest and certainly most interesting sectors beyond that, and we've had the pleasure of upgrades like the E52 and the E72 to enjoy over 2009, as well as the intro of the E55 candybar as well.

The classic series has been as well designed as ever with perhaps the Nokia 6700 classic the pick of the lot. Otherwise its all been about the much debated Comes with Music push and the Xpress Music handsets in the shape of the 5530 and the more premium touchscreen X3 and X6 devices, that could well find themselves doing better than some might think in the overall rankings.

Finally, Nokia wouldn't be Nokia if it wasn't trying something crazy and this year it's been the Nokia 7705 Twist. We'll let you judge that one for yourselves.

LG

With grit like determination to be the number two handset provider in the world, LG has been pushing, showing and innovating its heart out over 2009. While the Cookie continues to be its standout success, the likes of the LG Arena and new versions of both the Chocolate and Viewty in the LG BL40 and Viewty Smart have shown some serious intent, if lacking that final touch of class.

More recently, the LG BL20, or even newer Chocolate, looks to make its Black Label sibling that little bit more affordable along with the launch of the GD510 Pop, but the big design oohs and ahhs were saved for the LG GD900 see through phone and the LG Watchphone. Seen anybody actually wearing one yet?

Samsung

As well as being early on both the Windows Phone and Android markets, Samsung has been on a steep learning curve in all mobile departments throughout 2009. The company has been the first to test out the Vodafone 360 platform with the touchscreen H1 as well as briefly holding the record for the fastest phone in the west with the Samsung Jet.

Having finally perfected the touchscreen, the company has brought out more in the Tocco range for all levels if customer to play with and even gone AMOLED with superb handsets like the HD video shooting Samsung i8910. Beyond that, Samsung was the first to reach the 12-megapixel cameraphone mark with the Samsung Pixon12 and has added a couple of impressive innovations like the Beat DJ for the music obsessive and the solar panelled E1107. Generally a very good year for Samsung.

Sony Ericsson

There was a very long tease for Sony Ericsson fans this year. With the Satio and Aino shown off what seems like decades ago, news of the update to the Xperia back in March and Rachael round the corner since back in the summer, we're all just pleased that they made it in time for the 16th November Pocket-lint awards cut off.

Mercifully, while we were waiting for the big guns we had the pleasure of Maria Sharapova's company in the sale of the Sony Ericsson T707 plus, the eco-friendly Sony Ericsson Naite and the T715 more recently to pick up some native Twitter access. It wasn't a prolific year for the Japanese mobile maker but perhaps its biggest unsung hero was the continuation of the Walkman range with the likes of the Sony Ericsson W995 - one of the most complete mid-range handsets a person could buy. Well worth a shout.

The rest

Naturally, the last 12 months has come with its range insanely expensive luxury designer phones for equally insane people with obscenely insanely large wallets. See the Mobiadio Grand Pioneer, gold Nokia Carbon Arte, Motorola Aura Diamond and Tag Heuer Lamborghini handsets for just four of such examples. We wouldn't presume to deny yourselves and the panel of judges the chance to name any of them mobile phone of the year, but if you'd rather something more sensible, then spare a brief thought for the Land Rover S1 from Sonim and a good hour of pondering whether INQ really has cracked it this time with the INQ mini 3G.

What do you think?

But these are just some of the fantastic choices our readers have had in 2009. What would you like to see held aloft as the winner of Pocket-lint Best Mobile Phone 2009? What have we missed out? Which are your unsung heroes and of those we've already mentioned, which would get your vote? Let us know in the comments below and you can help our panel decide which make the shortlist of nominees to be announced here on Pocket-lint on 16 November. We'll have all out coverage of the Vodafone Pocket-lint awards 2009 right here. Don't miss a minute of it.

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Related links:

• Feature - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 - home cinema device
• Feature - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 - gaming hardware
• Feature - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 - games

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Pocket-lint Awards Features LG Nokia Android HTC iPhone 3GS Sony Ericsson Samsung

Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 - mobile phones originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:49:23 +0000

So you've got your eyes on the HTC HD2, you've read our review of the flagship Windows Mobile 6.5 device and you just want to know more. Here are some of our favourite funky features for you to explore.

1. Shortcuts make Sense

The front page of Sense is more than just a pretty clock and animated weather graphics. Three programmable slots sit waiting to be filled with shortcuts. Swipe these up and you get access to nine shortcut slots. Simply press one and then select the program, bookmark or contact you want to fill it with and hey presto! You are rocking from the first page.

2. Face plant your Mum

You're sitting at work, chatting to a colleague when your phone rings. After a quick glance at the screen, you decide now isn't the time to talk to your mother, so flip the HD2 face down to reject the call. It has a great sense of finality. We love it. Our mothers don't.

3. Close proximity

The HD2 comes rocking with a proximity sensor so it knows when it is next to your face. This does a couple of things. Firstly, it shuts off the screen whilst you are talking, saving battery. Secondly, when you pull the phone away from your face you are presented with in-call options – engage speaker phone, popup the keypad for those pesky automated services and so on.

4. Poke to focus

Touch focusing on the camera is all well and good, but usually results in one of two things. Firstly it often means you take a shot of something you didn't mean to through a quick press and secondly, it means you get camera shake because you move that focus to press the shutter button. Not so on the HD2. Touch to select the focal point and keep your finger in place to take the shot. It's a deliberate action, rather than a fleeting press.

5. Cover art made easy

Windows Mobile is only really for boring business types right? Well it isn't when you add a dash of HTC Sense sauce. Enter HTC's media player in Sense and you'll find an icon in the top left that will find and fill in your missing album art. iTunes eat your heart out.

6. More keyboards than you can shake a finger at

The HD2 has a massive screen, so the chances are that you'll never have to use anything other than the full QWERTY keyboard in either landscape or portrait modes. But if you do want something else, a long press next to keyboard icon at the bottom will spring up the options for compact QWERTY or a 12-key keypad.

7. Kill them!

From Sense you can swipe all the way to the right to access the settings, or simply swipe to the left from the front page. Here in settings under Other, you'll find the Task Manager. Multi-tasking is great, but it's so easy to leave all those applications running that you don't need. Here you can quickly and easily kill them.

8. Expand your horizons

With a 5-megapixel camera on the back, the HD2 gives you the option to snap a panoramic picture. It does this in three stages and all you have to do is take your first picture and a neat overlay helps you align the next picture and then the third. Ta da! An ultra-wide photo of your office.?

Check out all our HTC HD2 coverage on the tag home page.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Windows Phone

HTC HD2 funky features fun originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:43:26 +0000

HTC?and?Verizon?have confirmed the rumours that the second "Droid" handset alongside the?Motorola Droid will be called the Droid Eris and be created by HTC.?

The new handset will offer a virtually identical feature set to the?Sprint HTC Hero?and feature a 3.2-inch multi-touch touchscreen display, 512MB ROM, 288MB RAM and a Qualcomm MSM 7600, 528MHz chip.?

Running Android 1.5 rather than the newly announced 2.0 OS, users will get the Sense UI to guide them through the phones features.?

Differences to the HTC Hero on Sprint will be a smaller battery (1300mAh over 1500mAh) a slightly more rounded design and a matte black rather than silver finish. It will also come with a proximity sensor which turns the touchscreen off when next to your head - something the European and Sprint version doesn't have.?It's also thinner (only just).

In the hand it was quick to respond to our requests, and the multi-touch certainly helps it win out over the Droid by Motorola's 2.0 OS, however it's worth mentioning that with no GSM support this will only work in America.

Priced at $99 (the same as the iPhone) Verizon is being very aggressive on this one it seems. The new handset will be available from 6 November in the US.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Verizon Droid Eris Android Motorola Droid HTC Hero Photos

PHOTOS: Verizon Droid Eris by HTC hands on originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:00:01 +0000

Verizon and HTC just dropped a bombshell on Sprint and its HTC Hero offering, marketing a virtually identical handset for $80 cheaper in the US, in what is sure to create a price war in the run up to the holidays.

The new handset, The Droid Eris?by HTC, has been announced as part of the new DROID range on Verizon and will cost just $99 compared to Sprint's $179 HTC Hero.

The new model will come with the same 3.2-inch multi-touch touchscreen display, the same Qualcomm MSM 7600, 528MHz chipset and same ROM and RAM specifications (512MB and 288MB respectively), however, a proximity sensor has been added to turn the touchscreen off when next to your head. It will sport a slightly smaller battery (1300mAh vs 1500mAh) though.

Aiming to the be entry level handset to Verizon's new Droid range and taking on the Apple iPhone 3G, the HTC Droid Eris, as it will be known, will come with Android 1.5 OS rather than the newer 2.0 offering from Google and feature HTC's Sense UI as found on the HTC Hero.

In keeping with the Droid by Motorola handset launch, Verizon has left the handset operating system untouched only adding in its Visual Voicemail service.

The handset will be in stores from 6 November.

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Related links:

• Photos - Hands on gallery

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Verizon HTC Hero Droid Eris

HTC Hero becomes Verizon Droid Eris by HTC originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

The HTC Droid Eris has been steadily leaked over recent times, but just-revealed unboxing shots from US blog Boy Genius Report propel this effort from the realm of rumours into the big time.

We know Verizon is planning an entire family of Droid-branded Android phones, and it seems hot on the heels of the high-end Droid by Motorola, we can expect an announcement about this more mid-range effort soon.

What looks to be a variant of the Hero, the Droid is rumoured to launch at the $99 price point in the States - we will keep you posted.

UPDATE: The Droid Eris by HTC has now been confirmed, you can read our First Look review?or check out the?hands on?photos

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Verizon Android Droid Eris

HTC Droid Eris revealed in unboxing pics originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:50:20 +0000

HTC has announced the HD2, its new high-end Windows Mobile 6.5 handset, is now shipping in Europe and Taiwan.

In addition, HTC has confirmed the HD2 will be available in the United States with "a major US carrier" in early 2010.

Here in the UK we're still waiting for exact launch info. It seems T-Mobile may be offering the device - it was named on the operator's coming soon section - although there's no official comment yet as to when, how or why.

The HD2 offers the speedy Snapdragon processor, a 4.3-inch display, a 5-megapixel camera, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, GPS, and HTC's Sense UI interface on top of Windows Mobile 6.5.

We will keep you posted on its UK debut.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Windows Phone Microsoft

HTC announces HD2 is now shipping originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:05:49 +0000

It appears the HTC HD2 has found a home with a UK operator as T-Mobile has revealed via its website it is to offer the new device.

The new Windows Mobile 6.5 handset offers a 4.3-inch multi-touch display, speedy Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA.

The "HTC Touch HD2" has now appeared on T-Mobile's coming soon section of its online shop with a due date of November.

However, it's accompanied by the wrong image and is said to boast a 3.8-inch screen and Android Market, so we're certainly not holding our breath on this one. ?

UPDATE: T-Mobile says it has no comment.

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Related links:

• Shop - T-Mobile

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 T-Mobile Android Windows Mobile

T-Mobile to offer "HTC Touch HD2" with Android Market originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:20:04 +0000

HTC CEO Peter Chou has confirmed that the company has no plans to launch an Android version of its?HTC HD2?handset.

"Technically, we could make the HD2 an Android phone, but I have to take care of Windows Mobile", Chou told Forbes magazine.

The handset, which has just been?priced in the UK and sports a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, a 1GHz processor, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, GPS and a 5.0 Megapixel camera, is expected any day in the UK with Windows 6.5 as the operating system.

"We're working hard on these kinds of products to get excitement about Windows Mobile back", says Chou.

The news is likely to come as a disappointment to the Android fan base hoping to get a big screen touchscreen device from HTC.

Read

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Android HTC Windows Mobile HTC HD2

HTC: No Android HTC HD2 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:51:00 +0000

While Verizon has come clean about the Motorola Droid it's had lurking up its shirt sleeve, there's still the mystery of the HTC Droid Eris to clear up.

We know that Verizon is planning a veritable family of Droid handsets and the Eris, also known as the HTC Desire to its special friends, is tipped to be the next relative to market.

There's been whispers of low-end spec and a pocket-friendly price point of around $99, but now an image of the Hero-esque device has emerged over on PhoneArena.com.

The snap - from a tipster - comes in with the info that the Android device will get Wi-Fi and a 5-megapixel camera, but none of the slim-line slider looks of the Droid by Motorola.

If that wasn't enough to entice, HTC CEO is on record saying:

?"We've worked with Verizon for several years, but this is the first time we've been elevated to the role of core supplier", he says. "We are very excited about that opportunity".

The comment came in a recent interview with Forbes where it reports the?"company will introduce an Android phone on Verizon later this year, Chou confirmed. He says the handset, which will likely debut in the first week of November, is a sign of HTC's growing rapport with Verizon, the largest U.S. wireless operator.

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Related links:

• and via - Forbes

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Android Verizon Motorola Droid Rumours

HTC Droid Eris gets a little bit more leaked originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:55:05 +0000

The?HTC HD2,?the company's Windows Mobile 6.5 handset, might have already had an operator free price detailed by an?over zealous online retailer, but now it seems it's got a contract price for those waiting to grab it with their grubby mitts.

Mobiles.co.uk is the culprit, this time offering the handset to Windows Mobile fans on O2 starting at ?25 a month if you're happy to part with ?184.98 upfront.

Those looking for a cheaper way in can opt for a ?35, 18-month contract for which you'll get 600 of the operators finest minutes.

As is the way in the UK, those looking for a free handset need to sign away 2 years with the handset and ?40 a month.

No word on an availability date but the handset that sports a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, a 1GHz processor, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, GPS and a 5.0 Megapixel camera is expected any day.

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Related links:

• Via - electricpig

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2

HTC HD2 priced in UK originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 05:12:34 +0000

HTC?has confirmed that it will be bringing Android 2.0 to the HTC Hero.

"The rumors are true! Hero will be getting an Eclair update. We ask for your patience as we update Sense for the fancy new Android OS", the company said via its official Twitter feed.

No deadline was given as to when the handset maker will release the update, or whether it will be coming to other handsets like the G1, G2, Magic or Tattoo, but presumably it's a matter of implanting the Sense UI into the OS.

HTC is expected to announce?a new handset?next week under the Droid family banner from Verizon, however comments from Verizon suggest this won't be an Android 2.0 sporting device.

We will keep you posted.

UPDATE: There are unconfirmed rumours that in the meantime, the HTC Hero won't be getting the Donut 1.6 update. Our approaches to HTC on the subject were met with a refusal to comment.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Android HTC Google HTC Hero

Android 2.0 HTC Hero Inbound originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:39:37 +0000

Verizon?has confirmed that the?Droid?name will become a family of handsets with multiple phones from different manufactures, rather than just the single offering from?Motorola.

The news, clarifies rumours on the Internet that the Verizon Motorola Droid isn’t just a single standalone product.

"We do plan to bring other handsets to the Droid brand," a spokesman for Verizon confirmed to Pocket-lint at the launch event in New York city.

The Motorola Droid will, according to one of our contacts in the company, be the flagship model with Verizon pushing hard to promote the handset for the "Holidays" in the US.

But those worried about the $200 price and suggested $80 a month price plan shouldn't be:

"They won't all offer Android 2.0", our man says.

That comment will no doubt add fuel to the rumour that a second handset will be announced in the next couple of weeks from HTC, perhaps a US version of the?HTC Tattoo?

Not as much fuel, however, as whispers at the event hinting at a 5 November event for a second as yet unannounced handset.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola HTC Verizon Motorola Droid

Verizon: Droid becomes a family, other handsets coming originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:04:39 +0000

HTC has released the all important firmware update for its HTC Touch Diamond2 mobile phone?taking it from Windows Mobile 6.1 to?Windows Mobile 6.5.

The new ROM upgrade, which is available from the HTC website, will upgrade the phone to the new OS launched earlier in the month and with it bring a host of new features.

Users are recommended to backup their data as the process wipes any data from the handset.

HTC says the update will take up to 30 minutes, and users shouldn't interrupt the update process, make/receive phone calls, disconnect the device from the PC, or press any buttons until the process has been completed.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Windows Phone HTC Windows Mobile HTC Touch Diamond2

HTC Touch Diamond2 goes Windows Mobile 6.5 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:08:34 +0000

Early next year, Google is set to launch version 2.0 of its Android mobile operating system, codenamed "Eclair". The platform is confirmed to be appearing on the forthcoming Motorola Droid, but what about other manufacturers?

Samsung is staying tight-lipped about its Android experiments, perhaps following the difficult birth of the Galaxy i7500. HTC, however, buoyed by the success of its Hero handset, has happily confirmed to Gearlog that it has Android 2.0 in-house and it's working on it for future handsets.

What's not entirely clear yet is whether current Android handsets will be able to be upgraded to version 2.0. An Android 2.0 announcement is due imminently, so perhaps some of the questions surrounding the platform will be answered then. We'll keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Operating Systems Android HTC Samsung

HTC working on Android 2.0 handsets originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:11:54 +0000

HTC has unveiled a new advertising campaign in the hope to push the phone brand into the big time.

Based on HTC's new "Quietly Brilliant" positioning, the global "YOU" campaign is being rolled out across 20 countries and features the tagline, "You don't need to get a phone. You need a phone that gets you".

HTC says the campaign reflects its "commitment to focus on people, their needs and how they work and live to ensure that HTC devices suit them".

Hit play now to see one of the adverts, with more live now over on HTC's YouTube channel.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Advertising Video

VIDEO: HTC rolls out new "YOU" advertising campaign originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:57:16 +0000

HTC is struggling to meet demand for its flagship Android handset, the HTC Hero, according to the company's VP Asia-Pacific Jack Tong. Sales in Europe and Asia are very strong he said, which is causing production difficulties.

"The tight production will not be eased until November and the sales momentum of HTC Hero is expected to continue in the first quarter of 2010" said Tong when asked about the handset by DigiTimes. HTC believes that despite competition from a whole range of other manufacturers, it can maintain its lead in the Android phone market.

However Tong admitted that it'd take until the second half of 2010 to actually call the race, given Motorola's late, but strong-looking, entry with the Motorola Droid. There's also the recently launched US edition of the Hero to consider.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC Hero Biz Android

HTC Hero "in short supply" originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:57:24 +0100

The much-rumoured gPhone turned out to be "not one, but a thousand gPhones" when Google announced the launch of Android, its mobile phone operating system, but that is about to change.

While it's unclear what has prompted the internet giant to make the switch to offer its own hardware, design sources from within Google have revealed it is to offer an Android smartphone of its own.

"Google is working with a smartphone manufacturer to have a Google-branded phone available this year through retailers and not through telcos, according to Northeast Securities analyst Ashok Kumar, who has talked to Google's design partners about the plan", reports thestreet.com.

By offering the phone direct to consumers, rather than through an operator, it could be suggested Google's reason for a move into manufacturing could be to allow the consumer - and not the operator - to decide on features and apps, such as Google Talk, the VoIP solution.

The report suggests that the phone will use Qualcomm chips and could possibly be manufactured by HTC, a company Google appears to have good relations with that has worked with Android since day one.

The same source also reports that a Google Chrome netbook, again with Qualcomm chips and made by Qunata, will go on sale next summer.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google Android gPhone HTC Qualcomm Rumours

Google will launch an Android gPhone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:19:38 +0100

Images of an unidentified HTC phone have been posted online, prompting speculation this could be the rumoured HTC Dragon.

The Dragon or "Zoom 2" is thought to be the Android counterpart to the recently announced high-end HD2 Windows Phone from HTC, although this device's design details don't look as slick as the HD2.

The leak, from a "ninja" source of theunlockr.com, reveals nothing about specs, but androidguys.com has stepped in with news of a Snapdragon processor, multi-touch display, 5MP camera, Wi-Fi and GPS on an Android 2.0 handset.

We will keep you posted.

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Related links:

• First look - HTC HD2
• Via - BGR
• And - AndroidGuys

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Android Rumours HTC Dragon

Mystery HTC Android phone gets snapped originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:52:00 +0100

If you are looking to get your hands on some Android 1.6 action on the cheap, then the HTC Tattoo might be just for you.

You get a smaller form factor than other Android devices out there with a smaller 2.8-inch 240 x 320 QVGA screen, but you still get HSDPA connectivity as well as Wi-Fi.

You also get the 3.2-megapixel camera, GPS, digital compass and accelerometer, as well as an FM radio and a 3.5mm jack, so even though this is pitched as a mass market device, you don't get shafted on the tech specs.

You get HTC's Sense UI skin sitting over Android, just like the Hero big brother, with all the customisation options that Google's OS brings, including plenty of apps in the Marketplace.

Best of all, you'll be able to get it free on a ?25 per month contract from Vodafone. Orange are also showing it on their site from free, but with no word on pricing.

Enjoy the pictures whilst we get to work on a full review.

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Related links:

• Photos - HTC Tattoo cover designs revealed

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC Tattoo Photos

PHOTOS: HTC Tattoo originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:09:41 +0100

It seems HTC's new HD2, a high-end Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone, will be getting a suitably high-end price tag.

UK online retailer Clove currently has the device up for pre-order priced at ?540 for a SIM-free handset. Clove estimates the shipping date for the device as Wednesday 11 November in the UK.

All HTC has officially revealed is that "the HTC HD2 will be available later this month with selected operators across Europe, before rolling out to other regions in the coming months".

With initial impressions positive, the HTC HD2 boasts a high-res, 4.3-inch display, HTC's Sense UI, 1GHz Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and sensors galore.

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Related links:

• VIDEO - HTC HD2 shown off in promo
• Via - Engadget

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Clove Rumours

UK retailer Clove dates and prices HTC HD2 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:54:17 +0100

HTC has revealed its first set of covers for the HTC Tattoo, the company's new entry-level Android phone now available in the UK from Vodafone.

The HTC Tattoo gets HTC's Sense interface along with a 3.2-megapixel camera, 2.8-inch QVGA display, GPS, compass, Bluetooth, 3.5mm headphone jack, microSD expansion slot and of course, the option to personalise it with HTC's ready made covers.

For those really arty types among us, there's also the chance to design your own cover for the new device. Pricing is from 11.99 euros and the covers are available, direct from HTC, now.

Related links:

• PHOTOS - Palm Pixi Artist Series designs

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC Tattoo Photos Vodafone Skins Android

PHOTOS: HTC Tattoo cover designs revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:11:17 +0100

Vodafone has announced a triple-whammy of new handsets for customers on its network. There's the Windows Mobile LG GM750, the Android-tastic HTC Tattoo and the snap-happy Sony Ericsson Satio.

We'll start at the top. The LG GM750 has a 3-inch display, 5-megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash and GPS. It runs Windows Mobile 6.5, so it'll synch with Outlook and other work-related things, as well as offering four home screens and apps for accessing Facebook, Twitter, email and IM. It's free on ?25+ 2-year monthly contracts.

The HTC Tattoo is another entry-level Android handset for the UK market. It has HTC's Sense interface, like the HTC Hero, along with a 3.2-megapixel camera, 2.8-inch QVGA display, GPS, compass, Bluetooth and the same 528MHz Qualcomm processor as in every other Android handset. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD expansion slot too. Again, it's free on ?25/month 2-year contracts.

Lastly, the Sony Ericsson Satio is a renaming of what was originally called the Idou. It combines the company's Walkman and Cybershot brands to deliver a phone that can take 12.1-megapixel photos with a Xenon flash but also comes with media player functionality. It runs Symbian and has a big 3.5-inch screen. This one comes free on ?35/month 2-year contracts.

All three handsets are available now, and come with 300 extra minutes per month when you buy them online.

Related links:

• News - HTC Tattoo "mass market" Android phone announced

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Vodafone HTC HTC Tattoo Android LG LG GM750 Sony Ericsson Sony Ericsson Satio

Vodafone gets LG GM750, HTC Tattoo and Sony Ericsson Satio originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:15:45 +0100

A new advert from Microsoft for its mobile platform sees the software giant pushing the "Windows Phone" branding that's gone live with the release of the 6.5 OS.?

Promoting the HTC Pure - this version of the ad is for AT&T in the States - some commentators argue the ad could be a little misleading in suggesting Windows Phone is a product, rather than a platform.

Hit play now to see the new clip, complete with app icons in white tights, and let us know if you think it's a classic or a clunker in the comments box below.

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Tags: Phones Advertising Microsoft Windows Phone Windows Mobile Video HTC

VIDEO: Microsoft pushes Windows Phone in new ad originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:43:27 +0100

US cellphone users can finally snap up a HTC Hero on Sprint's network as the phone has officially gone on sale in the US.

The new handset, exclusive to Sprint, is a reworking of the European HTC Hero model, without the chin.

Offering a touchscreen interface, the Android OS, and a 5-megapixel camera, users wanting to get the new handset can do so via the company's website, giving them a call or by walking into a Sprint store and parting with $279.99 (you get $100 back after a mail-in rebate).

"For the non Apple or Palm believers, this is one to strongly consider", we said in a recent review giving the handset 9/10.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Sprint HTC Hero

Sprint's HTC Hero goes on sale originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:23:52 +0100

With a high-res, 4.3-inch display, HTC's Sense UI, 1GHz Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and sensors galore we couldn't be much more excited about the launch of the new HTC HD2. If you feel the same then get your juices really flowing with this slick promo effort from HTC showcasing the handset's abilities. Feel the rumble? Ooh yes please...

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Video

VIDEO: HTC HD2 shown off in promo originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:31:49 +0100

T-Mobile has announced that it will be launching a wooden myTouch 3G in connection with Guitar maker Fender for the Holiday season.

Called the T-Mobile myTouch 3G Fender Limited Edition, the handset, which is supposedly "perfect for music lovers", is a reskin of the myTouch 3G and features a Limited Edition guitar-inspired wood-grain finish.

If that wasn't enough to woo you into wanting more, HTC has added a 3.5mm headset jack into the mix, as well as, a pre-installed 16GB microSD card and exclusive pre-loaded video and audio clips by iconic musicians in the box.

No word on whether T-Mobile in the UK will be taking the handset, although as it's currently a Vodafone exclusive, it is very unlikely.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones T-Mobile HTC Android Fender T-Mobile myTouch 3G Fender Limited Edition T-Mobile mytouch 3G HTC Magic

T-Mobile myTouch 3G Fender Limited Edition takes wooden approach originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 06:22:32 +0100

Microsoft has officially launched Windows 6.5 or Windows Phone to you and me on Tuesday, but what phones can you get with the new operating system and what phone can you upgrade?

If you've already bought a HTC Touch Diamond II, HTC Touch Pro II, HTC Snap S552 or Toshiba TG01 WP, you can upgrade today via the HTC and Toshiba websites bringing you all the new features without having to buy a new handset.

If you want to upgrade your handset, here is the official list from Redmond of what you can get your hands on now and in the near future:

New handsets in the UK

• HTC Touch II from T-Mobile and Carphone Warehouse
• HTC Touch HD II from O2 and Carphone Warehouse
• LG GM750 from Vodafone
• Samsung Omnia II and Samsung Omnia Lite from Carphone Warehouse
• Samsung Omnia Pro - B7730 from Carphone Warehouse on 30 October?
• Sony Ericsson X2 from Vodafone on 30 October?
• Samsung Omnia Pro B7610 from O2 on 30 November

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New handsets in North America

• HTC Pure from AT&T
• HTC Imagio from Verizon Wireless
• Samsung Intrepid from Sprint, available 11 Oct, 2009
• HTC Tilt 2 from AT&T, available in the coming weeks

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In Europe

• MDA Vario V, MDA Compact V and HTC Touch2 and the Samsung Omnia II from Deutsche Telekom in select European markets
• HTC HD2 from Orange, available in the coming weeks in France
• HTC Touch2 from Orange, available in the coming weeks in France, Spain, Switzerland and Romania
• A software update for the HTC Touch Pro2 from Orange, available in the coming weeks in France, U.K. and Romania
• Samsung Omnia II from Orange, available in the coming weeks in Poland, Switzerland and Slovakia and from early December in France
• Samsung Omnia LITE from Orange, available in the coming weeks in France and Spain
• Samsung Omnia PRO B7320 from Orange, available in the coming weeks in France and the U.K.
• Toshiba TG01 W from Orange, available as an update to the TG01 in the coming weeks in France, the U.K., Switzerland and Romania
• LG GM750 and Samsung Omnia II from SFR in France?
• TMN Bluebelt 2 and TMN Silverbelt, made by ZTE Corp., from TMN in Portugal
• Samsung Omnia II and Omnia LITE from TMN in Portugal
• HTC Touch Diamond2 from Vodafone in Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, South Africa and Central Europe
• HTC Touch Pro2 from Vodafone in the U.K. and Switzerland
• LG GM750 from Vodafone in Germany, the U.K., Spain and the Netherlands?

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In Latin America

• Samsung Omnia available in the coming weeks from TIM Brasil

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Open market in Europe:

• Samsung Omnia II, Omnia LITE, Omnia PRO B7320, Omnia PRO B7330 and Omnia PRO B7610 available in October

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In Asia

• ZTE X60 from China Unicom
• HTC Touch Diamond2 from Telstra

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Open market in Asia

• Acer beTouch E100, beTouch E101, beTouch E200 and Acer neoTouch
• Garmin-ASUS n?vifone M20 ?
• HTC Snap, HTC Touch Pro2, HTC Touch Diamond2 and HTC Touch2
• LG GM730 and LG GM550
• Samsung Omnia II and Samsung Omnia PRO B7320, Omnia PRO B7330

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Handsets that can be upgraded from 6.1 to 6.5

• HTC Touch Diamond II from T-Mobile and Carphone Warehouse?
• HTC Touch Pro II from Vodafone on 14 October
• HTC Snap S552?
• Toshiba TG01 WP from Orange

Related links:

• Link - HTC

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Microsoft Windows Phone Windows Mobile HTC Samsung LG Orange T-Mobile AT and T Sony Ericsson

Microsoft Windows Phones: What phones are available originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:18:39 +0100

T-Mobile has finally released the firmware update for its T-Mobile G2 handset in the UK HTC has confirmed.

Although Orange customers have been using the new Orange HTC Hero firmware update for over 2 weeks for their version of the HTC Hero, T-Mobile customers have been left in the dark with T-Mobile giving no reason for the delay.

The new update, which shouldn't be confused with the expected Android donut 1.6 OS update, improves performance of the handset and general bug fixes.

Orange users who have already downloaded the update have reported vast improvements in speed and usability of the device.

G2 users are required to download the update and install it via a PC as the update software isn't Mac compatible.

T-Mobile also notes that "Downloading and updating your software may take some time due to the volume of interest there is in this latest update, so please be patient".

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Android HTC T-Mobile

T-Mobile G2 HTC update released originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:52:20 +0100

US mobile phone carrier Verizon is the latest company to announce that it is hopping into bed with Google to develop a range of Android powered handsets.

The news, announced on Tuesday, comes as Microsoft launches its Windows Phone, or Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system with a range of new and updated handsets.

"The two industry leaders will create, market and distribute products and services", Verizon and Google said in a joint statement before adding, "consumers will be able to purchase products resulting from the collaboration in Verizon Wireless retail and online stores".

According to the companies, the two mobile powerhouses plan to co-develop several Android-based devices that will be pre-loaded with innovative applications from both parties as well as third-party developers and be released in the coming months.

Although details of what those handsets would be and who would be making them are scarce, the two CEO's might have inadvertently leaked two possible new handsets already thanks to the photo shoot after the announcement.

Looking at the photo call pictures it clearly shows Eric Schmidt holding a currently unreleased handset - perhaps a Verizon version of the HTC Hero - while the Verizon CEO looks to be also holding an announced handset, which some have said could be an unannounced Motorola handset. The Motorola Sholes.

We will keep you posted.?

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Android HTC Motorola Verizon Google HTC Hero Motorola Sholes

Verizon to offer Android; CEOs leak new phones originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:34:23 +0100

It may not have been quite the upgrade Microsoft had conceived of with the company's initial route map for 2009 but the launch of Windows Phone/Windows Mobile 6.5 today comes with no less ceremony. Naturally, an operating system is all very well and good so, here are some of the first flush of Windows phones to show it off.

HTC Touch2

Samsung Omnia II (i8000)

LG GM750

Toshiba TG01

HTC HD2

Related links:

• Feature - Quick guide to Windows Mobile 6.5 - Windows Phone
• News - HTC HD2 coming this month with Sense UI

Tags: Phones Windows Mobile Windows Phone Operating Systems Mobile phone apps Mobile phones Windows Marketplace Microsoft HTC Samsung TG01 Omnia II Omnia LITE LG HTC HD2 HTC Touch2 Features

Five Windows Mobile 6.5 phones to watch out for originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:05:00 +0100

HTC today confirmed their much speculated and oft-snapped HTC Leo, which will be known as the HTC HD2.

Smacking the Toshiba TG01 right between the eyes, the HD2 features a massive 4.3-inch display, with a beautiful 480 x 800 pixel resolution display. It also has a multi-touch enabled capacitive touchscreen display.

"The HD2 brings the HTC Sense UI to Windows Mobile", Peter Chou told us in a one-on-one demo of the new Windows Phone, before recomfirming the message of Make It Mine, Stay Close and Discover the Unexpected which was pushed at the launch of the HTC Hero.

But keep a rein on your excitement. This version of the Sense UI doesn't resemble that found on the super Android handset, but looks suspiciously like the TouchFLO interface seen on HTC's other Windows Mobile handsets.

The HTC HD2 is a direct competitor to Toshiba's TG01 on another level as it also runs on Qualcomm's 1GHz Snapdragon chipset, with 512MB ROM and 448MB RAM. A microSD card slot is present to boost your storage.

Around the back you get a 5-megapixel camera supported by a dual LED flash, a 3.5mm headphone jack, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and bags of sensors to keep it smart, like an ambient light sensor and accelerometer.

Coming to market this month, we'll bring you all the details of networks and costs when we have them.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Windows Phone HTC Leo Windows Mobile

HTC HD2 coming this month with Sense UI originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0100

The new HTC HD2 - formerly known as the Leo - is looking to establish itself as king of the Windows Phone jungle with its massive 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen display.

Sitting on Qualcomm's 1GHz Snapdragon chipset, it joins the Toshiba TG01 running on this hardware. It is a Windows Phone with the latest version of Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5, but with HTC's Sense UI running over the top.

In our time with the HTC HD2, it is clear that there has been something of a nomenclature shift, as the Sense UI found here resembles the TouchFLO interface found on HTC's Windows Mobile devices in the past, rather than the Android version found on the HTC Hero.

However, there is a luscious sheen to HTC skin here, making the somewhat clunky Windows Mobile system much more tolerable, with large crisp icons, customisation and easy access to shortcuts.

If you like your weather apps, then you'll love the fact that when you switch on the HD2, you'll get a gorgeous full backdrop animation at the front of the Sense UI - it's really something to behold seeing clouds and lightening ripping through the back of your phone.

HTC also showed us a new travel car mount. By changing the back plate of the HD2, you'll be able to twist lock it onto this slick mount, and thanks to the clever sensors on-board, your phone will dive into NaviPanel, ideal for using in your vehicle.

It also features multi-touch, as demoed here by HTC CEO Peter Chou.

Will this be Windows Mobile's new hero?

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC Leo HTC HD2 Windows Phone Photos Windows Mobile

PHOTOS: HTC HD2 mobile phone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0100

In the States, AT&T has announced the launch of two new HTC devices, the HTC Tilt 2 and the HTC Pure, both new Windows Mobile 6.5 devices.

As far as marketing blurb goes, the Pure is said to "deliver a touch screen experience in an alluring, compact form factor", while the Tilt 2 "features the convenience of a tilting touch screen combined with the practicality of a slide out full QWERTY keyboard".

HTC has added its TouchFLO 3D interface to the phones, while AT&T will support Windows Marketplace for Mobile - Microsoft's answer to the App Store for Windows phones.

The Tilt 2 gets a high-res, 3.6-inch widescreen WVGA display, speakerphone with dual speakers and dual microphones with advanced noise cancellation, and a 3.2-megapixel camera.

The Pure offers a 3.2-inch WVGA touchscreen, a 5-megapixel auto-focus camera with video capture, expandable memory, "gravity sensor" and an ambient light sensor.

The Pure will cost $149.99 while the Tilt 2 will go on sale for $299.99 with rebates on 2-year agreements - a minimum of $70 a month as far as the Tilt 2 goes.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC AT and T HTC Pure HTC Tilt 2 Windows Mobile

HTC Pure and Tilt 2 launch on AT&T originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:44:35 +0100

In the States Verizon Wireless has announced the launch of its first Windows Mobile 6.5 device, the HTC Imagio.

Available from 6 October, the Imagio will be among the first of the Windows Mobile 6.5 handsets to market although it will still get HTC's TouchFLO 3D user interface.

The GSM/EDGE/UMTS/HSPA Imagio offers a 3.6-inch touchscreen with a 800 x 480 resolution, a 5-megapixel camera with video recording, Wi-Fi connectivity and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

As a US launch, the Imagio will offer Verizon's MediaFLO-based mobile TV as an added extra for $15 a month.

The HTC Imagio is being offered by Verizon for $199.99 if customers sign up for 2 years and do a $100 mail-in rebate.

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Related links:

• News - Vodafone to offer HTC Tattoo from October

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Verizon HTC Imagio Windows Mobile Windows Mobile Microsoft

HTC Imagio launches on Verizon originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:21:22 +0100