News Analysis: HTC has unveiled two new smartphones for the European market. And those announcements prove all too well that HTC is a company that Apple will need to reckon with.
HTC unveiled two new smartphones on Sept.
15. The devices, called the Desire HD and the Desire Z, will deliver impressive
functionality to customers looking for vastly different experiences. The Desire
HD boasts a 4.3-inch display and a full touch screen. The Desire Z includes a
QWERTY physical keyboard for those who aren't too keen on virtual
keyboards.
HTC's announcement
effectively demonstrated that, along with Motorola, the company is determined
to take on Apple in the mobile market. So far, it has been quite successful,
thanks to its HTC Droid Incredible.
But for now, Apple is leading. And it's the single company
that most firms should be concerned about. However, HTC
is proving with each passing month that it's a viable contender too. And it's a
company that Apple should worry about. Here's why:
1. The track record speaks for itself
HTC might not have the name
recognition that Apple enjoys, but it has proved to be an extremely successful
company. Not only was it the leader in the Android market when it was in its
infancy, but its
HTC Droid Incredible is widely regarded as one of the top smartphones
available now. That should translate to even more success going forward. And
that is not good for Apple.
2. High-end is where Apple plays
Apple has been successful catering to those who want a premium
product. But HTC has decided that that
market segment is also where it wants to compete. And so far, as the Droid
Incredible has shown, it can be successful in that space. Look for that to be
an issue for Apple. And expect HTC to
continue to cater to that sector in the coming years.
3. Android OS
Although HTC provides
Windows Mobile devices, the company is heavily invested in the Android space.
In fact, its most successful products (and the devices it most recently
announced) run Google's mobile operating system. That's not good news for
Apple. As recent reports have shown, Android OS is outpacing iOS quite handily.
As more consumers get their hands on Google's operating system, they might be
more likely to buy an HTC product over any
other-including Apple's iPhone.
4. Physical keys for those who want them
Unlike Apple, which has decided to ditch physical keys, HTC
has realized that there is still a large market for users who want a physical
keyboard. Admittedly, that market is shrinking as more and more people seek out
virtual keyboards. But by providing a physical alternative, HTC
can more easily attract a wider range of customers than Apple. Not only will
that help its sales, but it could impact Apple's, as well.
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