AT&T will not sell the newly launched HTC 10 smartphone, but the unlocked model will be compatible with the carrier.
HTC launched the highly-anticipated HTC 10 on April 12 and the Taiwanese handset maker has confirmed the availability and compatibility of the handset across various carriers in the U.S.
"In the U.S., HTC 10 will be available across multiple wireless providers including Verizon Wireless, Sprint and T-Mobile, which will announce colors, availability and pricing. In addition, HTC will be offering an Unlocked edition ... compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile networks," says HTC.
HTC has not yet confirmed if the carrier will offer the phone, but a tweet from Jeff Gordon, the head of communication at HTC, hints that AT&T may initially not offer the HTC 10.
@y2jdmbfan @HTCUSA @droid_life We encourage AT&T customers to purchase our unlocked model at https://t.co/RFCj5EicYK. Full AT&T support!
— Jeff Gordon (@urbanstrata) 12 April 2016
Customers who pay for a smartphone outright will not have a problem with the news, but those who want to the handset on an instalment plan may find it disappointing that AT&T will not offer the HTC 10.
However, HTC is offering a 12-month installment plan, in which those who will buy the HTC 10 directly from its website will have to pay $58.25 monthly.
HTC is also offering a promo that allows customers to avail $100 discount on HTC 10, which brings down the cost of the mobile phone to $599. For U.S. buyers, simply enter HTC1008 in the box under promotions on the checkout page.
The preorder of the device started on April 12 and its shipping will begin in May. HTC confirmed that the unlocked HTC 10 available from the company's website will be available for $699 and customers will have the option to choose from two hues: Carbon Gray and Glacier Silver.
HTC has also confirmed that the HTC 10 purchase from the company's website will include "UH OH Protection," which offers one free replacement without any charge. Customers can get their HTC unit replaced, as long as it was damaged or cracked within 12 months after purchase, as part of the protection plan.
Although AT&T will not initially carry the HTC 10, the carrier may offer the handset in the near term. It remains to be seen if the non-availability of the HTC 10 on AT&T has any impact on U.S. sales.
