Handset maker HTC announced another
mobile phone that will be powered by Google’s Android operating system—the
Tattoo, a compact device that allows user customization.
Users will be able to design and purchase their own unique covers or search
and select from popular cover designs, altering the look of the phone to
reflect their individual tastes. The Tattoo will be available in Europe
first at the beginning of October, and HTC
said it will offer the handset in markets around the world “in the following
months.”
The Tattoo is the second phone to embody HTC
Sense, which the company describes as a mobile experience focused on putting
people at the center by making their phone work in a more simple and natural
way. “Designed by listening and observing how people live and communicate, HTC
Sense revolves around three fundamental principles: Make it Mine, Stay Close
and Discover the Unexpected,” a company release stated. “Stay close to the
important people in your life by integrating your communications and
applications including voice calls, emails, texts, photos and status updates
into one consolidated view.”
The handset also integrates Google’s mobile services, including Google Maps,
search, Google Mail and Android Market, where users can download thousands of
applications and games. It also comes with a variety of hardware features,
including a 3.2-megapixel auto-focus camera, a 3.5mm stereo headset jack and
expandable microSD memory.
HTC CEO
Peter Chou said everyone wants their phone to feel like it was specifically made
for them. “The Tattoo, with HTC Sense,
represents an easy way to shape your own distinct mobile experience and really
make it your own," he said. "The HTC
Tattoo ensures that you can create the most engaging and appropriate mobile
experience through simple yet powerful personalization."
Earlier this month, wireless carrier Sprint announced the availability of
the long-awaited HTC Touch Pro2; customers
can grab the smartphone for $350 including a two-year contract. The device,
which runs on Windows Mobile 6.1, offers a TouchFlo user interface and
entertainment options like Sprint TV with live and on-demand programming, as
well as Sprint’s exclusive sports applications NFL Mobile Live and NASCAR
Sprint Cup Mobile.
Despite the presence of Windows Mobile devices in the HTC
lineup, the company has found success in the past with Android-powered handsets
and appears ready to release more in the future. The company is reportedly working to release the
update to the company’s Touch HD smartphone, which will also feature Android.
The Touch HD is currently running on Windows Mobile.
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