Where it gets a little more exciting is when you realise that the HTC Touch HD packs HSDPA, Wi-Fi and GPS, which all work well and provide a fast and easy way of staying connected and located. Depending on which network you're on, 3G speeds will vary.
We tested out the Touch HD's GPS with Google Maps and it looks great on the large screen. Another feature that benefits from the Touch HD's large screen is the Opera Mobile Web browser that displays full pages similar to the iPhone's browser.
The 5-megapixel camera sounds impressive but we weren't overwhelmed by the picture quality. It sufficed for small to medium-sized prints but wasn't as sharp as we expected. There's no flash, either, so shots in low light don't come out well.
Performance
Battery life is quoted at 420 minutes talk time with 3G turned on and 680 hours on standby. We found that with regular use -- activating features like the GPS and HSDPA -- it lasted for a full day before needing to be recharged.
Conclusion
While we'd like to say it's as good as the iPhone 3G, we can't. Windows Mobile just doesn't offer the same ease of use, even with TouchFLO 3D. Still, it is one of the best Windows Mobile devices we've seen, so don't write it off because of that.
If you don't mind using a stylus every now and then, we thoroughly recommend the Touch HD. Plus, small details such as the responsive screen and 3.5mm headphone jack are clear signs that HTC is listening very closely to its customer base.
We found the HTC delivered an overall experience better than the Touch Diamond. We still hope the next version will come with a mechanical keypad, though, and while we're wishing for new features, Google Android would be nice, too.
Edited by Marian Smith
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User reviews20
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von dutch 18 June 2011
Comment: there is just one thing i'd like to say. IT'S A SMARTPHONE NOT A F@@@ING PDA
Casim Amin 16 August 2010
Good: everything especially youtube
Bad: too big
Comment: its a great phone and everyone should have one
PSiReN 5 November 2009
Good: The Screen
Bad: Operating System, Reliability
Comment: I've had this PDA now for just under 12-months and in that time it has only worked fully for about 2-months. During the course of my ownership SMS-Messaging has failed; on-line video rendering has failed; it has burned out two MicroSD Cards and required 2-battery replacements.
While the device is primarily intended for a touch-screen market; the sensitivity of the resistive screen (or lack thereof) can make some interactions very difficult without having to rely on the provided stylus. But, be warned - even with the lightest of touches with the supplied stylus; the screen is prone to scratching and will require the regular replacement of screen-protectors.
I don't doubt there are many delighted owners who have thoroughly enjoyed having this bright and shiny new toy; however, it's worth bearing in mind that there remain several question marks over the performance of some elements of its Operating System and general functionality. Windows Mobile 6.1 is problematic and while HTC attempts to mask those problems with their own proprietary interface; only so much can be done to make a silk-purse out of a sow's ear.
When it does work; it can be a real asset - but its reliability falls very much short of what one would expect for device in this price-range.
Of particular note is HTC's woeful Customer Support. In each of the faults I've listed above; HTC's only recommendation is to try a Soft Reset (which failed each and every time) followed by a Hard Reset, which unless you're very careful to back-up all your data and personal settings you will lose and can take in one instance up to 5-hours to reset. HTC seem to regard the proposition of replacing a clearly defecting piece of equipment as beneath them (I've been told repeatedly that it is not "policy" to replace their devices) and have insisted that the device go in for repair. Each time it has been returned to them it has come back (between 3 to 6 weeks lead-time) with the fault unresolved. What they must imagine you're supposed to do for mobile telephony while they're supposedly fixing the problem is anyone's guess.
For a device that allegedly thrives on its adaptability, connectivity and personal customisation; it promises a great deal... However; over time I have found it singularly one of the most frustrating pieces of kit I've ever laid my hands on and that frustration has only been compounded by HTC's ambivalent, incompetant and, dare I say it, complacent approach to Customer Relations.
Buyer beware - HTC's bid for mobile supremacy with this device has its flaws and in my experience; that bid comes very much at your expense - in terms of money; time and inconvenience.
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