14 DAY TRIAL // The FCC is bringing to our attention the new Shadow model, which will be on sale via T-Mobile. Surprisingly or not, this model does not pack specs too different from those of its predecessor, so it might not be such exciting news for fans as believed.
First, as far as the differences are concerned, we should begin by saying that they’re noticeable at first sight, this newer model presenting rounder lines and a smoother design. Also, it introduces a reduced 20-key QWERTY keypad, but, at the same time, presenting more front buttons than the elder model.
Next up, the more relevant changes: the Shadow offers Unlicensed Mobile access support, which is a great feature, simply because it saves a lot of time by transitioning from the GSM phone network to the Wi-Fi connections when necessary, if these are available. Moreover, the quadband GSM reception works great for global compatibility but, in case there is no Wi-Fi signal, the EDGE connection pops in to take over.
Other than that, this Shadow runs using the updated 6.1 Windows Mobile version, but does not bring to the table any other new features. It uses the same, slightly unsatisfactory 2 Megapixel camera, and includes the 2.6'' QVGA TFT display, which is not able of new levels of performance, as compared with the old one.
The other thing worth mentioning about the Shadow II is that, by using the Windows Mobile OS and the microSD card slot, this HTC phone can now support more audio and video formats. These, in turn, are easily stored using the previously mentioned microSD card.
Details currently available have it that Shadow II will go to T-Mobile, but since no official statements have yet been made by the American company, no pricing or availability information is available. Considering the not so convincing improvements, it will probably cost about the same as the earlier Shadow model.