HTC corporation has just announced the availability of HTC Shift, yet another entrant to the UMPC segment, that combines the power of Windows Vista with the Origami Experience and the 3G/HSDPA connectivity. The ultra-mobile PC has finally kicked in, after more than two full months of delays.

Web users will have a pleasant surprise: the 3G/HSDPA connectivity will allow them to stay online even when leaving the office, while the device's battery can keep the sub-notebook alive for more than three days of continuous e-mail sending. The updated version comes with a new finger-friendly browser, RSS reader and integrated media player. The Origami Now gives the suer one-click access to all the stored vital information, such as e-mail, scheduler, organizers and time planner, as well as weather forecasts and customizable to-do lists.

"I think that users will really enjoy the updated Web experience that utilizes finger touch navigation," said Peter Chou, president and CEO, HTC Corp. "The HTC Shift has led to a new experience for customers wanting an always-on and always connected mobile computer packed with the features and functionalities they expect from a notebook."

The HTC Shift is the first device to feature HTC's innovative new SnapVUE technology, that provides instant access to email, calendar, SMS messages and contacts, even before fully booting the system up. This is a dramatic improvement in the sub-notebook's functionality, that is aimed at saving the battery power.

"Microsoft is pleased to be working with HTC and we look forward to continuing our strong legacy of innovative smartphones and now mobile computers," said Bill Mitchell, corporate vice president of Microsoft's Windows PC3 Division. "The HTC Shift provides all the power, functionality and connectivity the busy professional needs in a sleek design that is half the size and a fraction of the weight of standard notebooks. The HTC Shift is the first device to feature HTC's innovative new SnapVUE technology."

The HTC Shift is available for immediate distribution through Telefonica in Spain, Orange in the UK, while Italy will soon start selling the units through TIM. The device will wear an impressive price tag of $1,750. US availability is not scheduled yet.