The smartphone will be positioned in the mid-range category

Aug 4, 2012 05:22 GMT  ·  By

HTC Proto is a new Android phone expected to arrive by the end of the year. HTC Proto is rumored to replace the One V, but it will come with enhanced specs and will have the same price point.

The folks over at The Verge have been tipped by a source close to the matter that HTC Proto would be launched later this year, probably in fall.

We wouldn't be surprised if the Taiwanese handset manufacturer will go official with this device at IFA 2012, sometime at the end of the month.

This is not the first time we hear about a device codenamed HTC Proto. We have already reported more than two weeks ago that the folks over at Stuff claimed that a new HTC Desire Proto smartphone is in the works.

Unfortunately, we're not sure whether or not the device will be part of HTC's One family or the company will decide to add it to the more affordable Desire series of smartphones.

We also know that the Proto will sport a more than decent 4.0-inch WVGA Super LCD capacitive touchscreen display, as well as a 5-megapixel rear camera with autofocus, LED flash and video recording.

Hardware-wise, HTC Proto will be a considerable upgrade from the current HTC One V model. While the latter is equipped with a 1 GHz single-core CPU, the former will be powered by a dual-core processor clocked at 1 GHz.

It's also expected to pack 4GB of internal memory, 512MB of RAM and microSD card slot for memory expansion (up to 32GB).

HTC Proto will offer both HSDPA (7.2Mbps) and HSUPA support, along with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, microUSB and GPS connectivity. Last but not least, the smartphone will feature Beats Audio technology and will run Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich platform.

Previous rumors point to an initial release in the UK, but there are no additional details available for the moment. Stay tuned for more info on the subject.