Taiwan based HTC has released its two new smartphones powered by Windows Phone 8 operating system in a bid to cement its position in global smartphone market which is currently dominated by Apple and Samsung.
The new Windows Phone 8X and the Windows Phone 8S are expected to position HTC directly against major Microsoft partner Nokia, which had also launched its two Windows powered phone models.
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said pairing HTC’s new Windows Phone 8X and 8S with the company’s brand is a big milestone for both companies.
"Together we are offering customers a clear choice and a truly unique experience," Ballmer said.
Anticipated to be on sale from November 2012, the new smartphones will be available through 150 carriers in at least 50 countries globally.
The carriers include AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, Orange, O2 Telefonica, MTS, Three UK, T-Mobile and Vodafone and in addition to Chunghwa Telecom, Optus, Singapore Telecommunications, Smartone, Telstra and Vodafone Australia, among many others.
HTC’s 8X features a 4.3" HD-resolution super LCD 2 screen which deploys use the newest version of Corning’s lightweight Gorilla Glass 2, while 8S possesses a bright LCD 4" screen with Gorilla Glass, which are equal to the screen of Apple’s new iPhone 5.
Windows Phone 8X by HTC
According to the company, the Gorilla Glass will allow the users to view the Windows Phone Live Tiles, and offers crystal clarity view of every message and photo.
The new devices will incorporate an ultra-wide angle front-facing camera that allows capturing up to four people within a single snap, which also enables for high-definition (1080p) video capture.
Featuring an 8mp CMOS sensor with backside-illumination (BSI) for enhanced low-light performance, the rear camera sports an f/2.0 aperture, 28mm lens and an imaging chip, while a physical shutter button allows capturing spontaneous action.
