HTC are announcing a big leap to start 2017 with the U Series. The smartphone is a premium device that wants to do more than other smartphones. There are two models, the U Ultra and U Play.
The U Ultra and U Play
Users will see a significant difference between the U Ultra and U Play. The specs of the U Play are top of the range: The processor is the Snapdragon 821; 4GB RAM; 64GB or 128GB internal storage; MicroSD card slot with up to 2TB storage; 12MP UltraPixel camera with autofocus, a f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization; and a 3,000 mAh battery; The screen is the Super LCD 5 and is 5.7-inches; The OS is Android 7 Nougat.
The U Play’s specs are unimpressive with the process the Helio P10 from MediaTek; 32GB or 64GB internal storage; The battery is 2,500mAh; The resolution is 1080p with a 5.2-inch display; The camera is 16MP; The OS is Android Marshmallow.
Following the Trends
HTC are following other smartphone makers in removing the 3.5 headphone jack. This seems to be standard now, but there doesn’t appear to be a standard for Bluetooth headphones. HTC will bundle its USonic earphones with the U Ultra and Play; The earphones only work with HTC smartphones, though.
The U series smartphones contain AI enhancements. These inclusions will help the smartphone learn how you use the phone, offer suggestions on how to better use the phone or daily life tips (Like if it’s a cold day). The service is always on to detect your voice and accept commands. A biometric voice authentication app is also in development.
New Liquid Design
The design of the phones is glossy and hard to hold. Users will need to get a case for protection. HTC use a new glass covering called Liquid Surface that aims to give a more lucid feel to the screen. The devices will be available in black, white, blue and pink.
The HTC U Ultra will be available for pre-sale on HTC’s website for $749. Worldwide deliveries will be in March (End of January in Taiwan). The U Play is expected to be released this spring, with no price announced. A limited edition U Ultra with 128GB storage and a sapphire glass screen is set to come out, but so far without a release date or pricing.
Source: HTC
