HTC HD2 Smartphone Coming to U.S. in Early 2010

Taiwanese handset maker HTC announced the launch of the HD2 smartphone in Europe and Taiwan and said the device, which boasts a 4.3-inch touch screen, Windows Mobile 6.5 OS and Qualcomm's 1GHz Snapdragon mobile processor, will reach U.S. shores in early 2010.

HTC, however, did not specify an exact date or carrier.

The smartphone is available around the middle of November with Taiwan Mobile and will be available throughout Asia in the coming month.

The HD2 includes a variety of sensors, including a proximity sensor that is used to prevent false screen touches when the phone is picked up to answer or make a call. And a light sensor on the HD2 automatically adjusts the brightness of the display.

Shipped with 3G broadband connectivity, the HD2 offers Wi-Fi anywhere for users’ computer or other devices. Also available for the smartphone is an optional car kit that transforms the HD2's user interface into an in-car navigation system.

"The HD2's amazing customer experience is a testament to the close partnership between HTC and Microsoft, and we're excited to be bringing the HD2 to Taiwan and the United States," said HTC CEO Peter Chou. "The HD2 is the first Windows phone with HTC Sense, an HTC user experience focused on making the phone more simple and natural to use and by enabling people to personalize their mobile experience in their own unique way."

HTC is putting a strong emphasis on the personal with the HD2; among the device’s social networking-oriented features is a Windows-based version of its Twitter application, HTC Peep. HTC notes the pictures users take with the phone's 5-megapixel camera can also be shared via Facebook and Twitter. The display also provides a single contact view that shows individual communication snapshots of conversations with contacts regardless of whether a call, text, Facebook status update or e-mail was used.

"Working with HTC, we've delivered great phones that help customers connect to the people and information they care about, wherever they are," said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. "The HTC HD2 shows what's possible through our close partnership with HTC and it breaks new ground for Windows phones by delivering a beautiful multitouch screen that people will love."