14 DAY TRIAL // Taiwanese mobile phone maker HTC has just announced that it would have a new Android-based smartphone available for purchase on the North American continent in the near future, namely the HTC Merge.
The smartphone made it to the headlines quite a few times before, but nothing was officially announced on it until now, when HTC confirmed that it would be launched during spring 2011 via multiple wireless carriers.
The new device arrives on shelves with a large 3.8-inch touch-screen display, complemented by a full QWERTY slide-out keyboard.
It runs under Google's Android 2.2 Froyo operating system, on top of which HTC loaded its own user experience, HTC Sense.
At the same time, the new mobile phone sports a 5-megapixel photo snapper on the back, with video recording capabilities.
According to the leading handset vendor, another important feature of the new device would be the fact that it is HTC's first Android-based CDMA world phone.
“HTC prides itself on creating unique solutions that meet the needs of different customers, and with features like a full keyboard and global 3G roaming, the HTC Merge smartphone is the perfect example of this commitment,” said Jason Mackenzie, president, HTC Americas.
“Combining the functionality of Android with the HTC Sense experience, the HTC Merge is the perfect device for those customers who are looking for a reliable mobile experience with the features and functionality of a smartphone, whether it's at home or traveling around the world.”
The features list of the new device also includes seamless integration with Exchange ActiveSync, as well as sharing and viewing pictures on Flickr.
The HTC FriendStream would enable users easily stay in the loop with Flickr, Facebook and Twitter updates, while the full slide-out QWERTY keyboard would prove a great option when it comes to writing messages.
Moreover, it offers fast access to the Android Market, so that users can benefit from a customizable experience via applications available for download there.
The specifications list of the new device also includes 3G connectivity, as well as integrated GPS, Wi-Fi capabilities, as well as high-definition 720p video recording capabilities.