Microsoft

Could the HTC HD2 be the best phone ever?

Htc_hd2

Over the past month or so, there have been numerous postings across the web about the HTC HD2 (aka Leo), which is the successor to the Touch HD smartphone that was never released here in the US. Because of this, I never paid real close attention to the forthcoming HD2, figuring I would never see an American-spec version of it.

Looks like I was wrong, because according to the guys over at SlashGear, HTC CEO Peter Chou has confirmed a Q1 2010 launch. While most people in Europe will be able to pick up an HD2 within the next month or so, we'll have to remain patient for a bit longer, and that will be hard to do because the HD2 is looking like it could possibly be the best phone ever. Yes, those are strong words, but HTC is clearly on a hot streak and packing everything it can into this phone, with the exception of the kitchen sink.

On paper, the specs of the HD2 shine brightly, starting with the 1GHz Snapdragon processor from Qualcomm and the 5MP camera with a dual-LED flash. Of course, the usual assortment of wireless radios (802.11bg, BT 2.1, 900 & 2100 MHz HSPA, GPS, FM radio) are also included, along with a 3.5mm headset jack and micro-USB connector. Another innovative feature is a replacement battery cover with special attachment for the optional car kit, which makes the HD2 a perfect alternative to portable GPS units and helps to eliminate those bulky cradles that some devices use.

Switching over to the software, the HD2 is running Windows Mobile 6.5 (aka Windows phone). The Sense UI also makes an appearance for the first time on a WinMo device, since it has been only for HTC's Android phones up until now. Opera Mobile is the browser of choice, and that's a good thing because there is nothing better out there for this platform.

Htc_size

But what really makes the HD2 stand out is the thin-bezel, capacitive screen that measures in at 4.3" and has a resolution of 480×800. Even though the screen is larger than any other phone since HTC's former flagship, the Advantage, the overall device size is kept to a minimum. As a matter of fact, in this Sizeasy comparison chart, it is very easy to see that the phone is not much larger than the iPhone 3GS and the Sprint HTC Hero. I'm sure not everyone will agree with me, but I would gladly deal with a larger device if it meant less zooming while web browsing and a wider on-screen keyboard.

So who else is excited about this phone, or is it just easier to ask who isn't? For me, I think it's extremely cool to know that I could possibly be carrying a 1GHz minicomputer in my shirt pocket within the next six months, so that finally has me excited about the HTC HD2.

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Chris King

Chris King is a former contributing editor at Pocketables.

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