We've been hearing quite a lot about HTC's next Windows Phone 8 device that is based on the One (M8) design. According to newly acquired information, the device is real, and it will be called the HTC One W8. There's also a leaked image of the handset that shows off some cool hardware features.
If this information is indeed legitimate, then it will be bittersweet for some, so prepare yourselves for some good news, and some bad news.
The good news:
The report claims the HTC One W8 has a similar metallic design to its Android counterpart. However, there seems to be one striking difference. Leaked information via the guys from evLeaks shows a device with dual cameras. These cameras are likely associated with depth sensing and probably lead to DSLR like shots.
Furthermore, the new HTC device is reported to have BoomSound included for louder speakers and a more pleasant sound for music listeners. Interestingly enough, it is said the HTC One W8 will be the first Windows Phone 8 device to support Voice over LTE (VoLTE), which is another feature that is only available to Windows Phone fans on the 8.1 Update 1 firmware.
HTC might launch the device in September, as per reports. However, sources are claiming that Microsoft stores could launch its first in August. When it comes down to pricing, the HTC One W8 is expected to cost $199 on-contract, and $610 off contract
Now to the bad news:
The HTC One W8 is expected to launch exclusively on Verizon Wireless, and there's no word as to when carriers such as AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile will get ahold of the device. Chances are, this is a six month deal, so it should make it to other carriers by the year 2015.
With HTC coming back to Windows Phone after a long hiatus to focus more on Android, it might be a good sign that the platform is picking up steam, and attracting manufacturers. However, this wouldn't be the first time Microsoft rallied support for Windows Phone, so this time around, sales must improve to keep manufacturers from defecting once more.
But hey, if things go sour, Microsoft can always pick up the slack since it is now a hardware maker.
