HTC has taken the wraps off its latest high-end smartphone, a Windows Phone-powered version of its popular One M8 device.
Unveiled at a media event in New York, the metal-bodied HTC One M8 for Windows is much the same as its Android-powered sibling, originally released in April this year, featuring a 5 inch 1080px screen and identical dimensions to its predecessor.
The device will run the latest version of Windows Phone 8.1 over Android 4.4 and HTC’s Sense OS, meaning users will be able to enjoy the likes of Cortana, Microsoft’s voice-activation software.
It is powered by the same Snapdragon 801 processor and 2GB of RAM alongside 32GB of storage, and has the same innovative dual-camera setup, which is powered by an all-new Microsoft-built app that ensures many of its best features are still present.
HTC has also included a new version of its BlinkFeed app to provide a similar service to that found on the Android-powered device, and a new Sense TV app which lets you turn the device into a remote control using the M8’s infrared port.
The device will initially go on sale in the United States through Verizon Wireless starting from today, with a further overseas launch rumoured but not initially announced. It is available for either a promotional price of $99 with a two-year contract or $29 per month through a financing plan.
Originally hinted at by a Microsoft executive in June, the HTC One M8 for Windows will be a significant presence in the market alongside the existing large-screen devices from Microsoft-owned Nokia, whose Lumia 1520 and 1020 devices.
HTC will be hoping the device will lead to a boost in sales as it looks to reclaim its spot amongst the world’s largest smartphone manufacturers. Last month, the company announced profits following three successive quarters of loss, which many attributed to large cost-cutting measures.
