Rumored Features That Could Make the HTC 11 a Top-Notch Smartphone

HTC is preparing to introduce the HTC 11, the next generation of its top-of-the-line smartphone model. The handset is the follow-on to last year’s HTC 10 and will succeed the HTC U Ultra. Although HTC has kept its plans close to the vest, speculation has been flying over the features that will appear in the HTC 11. A recent report suggested the HTC 11 will offer the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 when the chip is released to device manufacturers. There’s also a chance the HTC 11 will offer an edge-to-edge display featuring a quad-HD resolution. Also rumored to be part of the HTC 11 are 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of onboard storage. If the rumors are true, the HTC 11 could be an impressive device with broad appeal to consumers and enterprise users.

The HTC 11 could be the second big handset to ship with the upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor. Samsung reportedly has the exclusive contract on the first run of Snapdragon 835 chips, then Qualcomm will make it available to other manufacturers.

If the HTC 11 exists—and it’s unknown as this point whether it does, since HTC hasn’t confirmed it—the device could offer a quad-HD-resolution screen measuring 5.5 inches. It would include dual edges on either side, effectively creating an edge-to-edge display.

HTC earlier this year unveiled its U Ultra handset, which boasts two displays. According to several reports, HTC will be offering the same dual-display design in the HTC 11. It’s a feature that could differentiate the device in a mobile industry dominated by single-screen smartphone makers.

HTC is said to be preparing a big design improvement in the HTC 11. The front of the device could consist of a display that nearly covers the entire face, with small bezels at the top and bottom. The device’s chassis could be made from metal, giving it a sleek and thin design while offering some protection from spills.

The HTC 11 could come with massive amounts of RAM and storage. On the memory front, HTC is rumored to be preparing 8GB, putting it far ahead of last year’s high-end handsets that predominantly topped out at 4GB. The device also could offer up to 256GB of onboard storage, giving users ample room to store photos and videos.

In an interesting move, the HTC 11 might not come with two lenses in its rear-facing camera, breaking from the standard set by other high-end handset makers. However, the HTC 11 is rumored to have a 12-megapixel camera on the rear that should support high-quality shots and video.

The HTC 11 will come with Nougat, the latest Android operating system distribution, according to reports. With Nougat, users will find enhanced notifications, a more intuitive design and more.

The device could ship with a high-capacity battery that could come close to touching 4,000mAh. That means it can deliver ample charge throughout the day and potentially into the evening for heavy users. Battery life is a major selling point, and HTC doesn’t appear willing to skimp on that feature.

HTC has been investing heavily in virtual reality through its Vive headset and has integrated VR elements into its devices to ensure they can accommodate sophisticated virtual content. Since the 11 could be HTC’s standard-bearer, look for the smartphone to feature hardware and software features that support the latest VR innovations.

HTC hasn’t shared its plans, so it’s impossible to say when the HTC 11 will be available. However, several rumors have pegged its release date as late April or early May. Pricing also hasn’t yet been revealed but, given its features and status as HTC’s top-of-the-line handset, pricing will likely be in line with the HTC 10 and similar high end handsets.