Enterprise Mobility: Verizon Unveils HTC Thunderbolt 4G Android Phone with Sense 2.0 UI

 
 
By Clint Boulton  |  Posted 2011-03-28 Email Print this article Print
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Verizon Wireless March 17 launched its first 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) smartphone in the form of the HTC Thunderbolt, a speedy but brick-like Android 2.2 smartphone with a kickstand to let users watch YouTube and other multimedia content without holding the handset. The Thunderbolt costs $249.99 with a two-year contract. Thus, we argue Verizon is gambling by selling a smartphone powered by the previous generation of Android. However, amid the various perks and functionality, the price lies in the phone's ability to tap Verizon's vaunted 4G network. That's right; speed is the Thunderbolt's calling card. The phone's Qualcomm MSM8655 Snapdragon 1GHz chip fueled the company's 3G and 4G networks with agility and grace. We tested 3G in Connecticut and 4G in New York City (Verizon's 4G network does not yet cover Connecticut). Here is a sample of the hardware and software attributes of the device, which shines with HTC's Sense 2.0 user interface.
 
 
 
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Its a Brick!

Let's get one of the big drawbacks out of the way. The Thunderbolt is heavy, weighing 6.23 ounces, thanks to the larger battery required to handle the demands of the device's 4G network capability. This will deter some users who prefer 4- to 5-ounce phones.
Its a Brick!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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