Windows 10 Mobile fans still have to muster some patience until the Surface Phone arrives, but in the meantime they can tap into the productivity-oriented HP Elite X3.
The Elite X3 is rumored to become the most reliable and impressive Windows 10 Mobile phone of this year, and it looks like it will rank high in the aesthetics department as well. X3 clients from select markets will be able to get the device in a gold color option, and even pair it with an optional stylus accessory.
On a less than stellar note, keep in mind that the stylus is actually passive. Additionally, there is talk about the challenges the enterprise-oriented smartphone will face when working with Verizon's LTE.
The HP Elite X3 is said to pack the best hardware running on Windows 10 Mobile so far. From what we heard, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 will be used for processing power, and a generous 6-inch HD AMOLED screen will serve as display.
On the aesthetic front, the device will carry a premium-looking aluminum unibody. When it comes to color schemes, most leaks showed the device as coming in HP's traditional silver nuance. Support documentation points out that a gold version is in store, adding a bit of panache to the otherwise serious handset.
The gold option will be limited to a few markets only, but our money is on the United States and the United Kingdom for the first countries to receive it.
The optional passive stylus could have wider availability, however. The stylus is dubbed "passive" because it contains a usual rubber stub, just like the ones from screen smartphones. HP says that the stylus will allow "accurate, smooth handwriting" thanks to its 2 mm (0.07-inch) tip, which is visibly smaller than its counterparts. The general dimensions of the stylus are 5.43 x 0.37 inches, with a weight of 42 ounces.
Three replacement tips get shipped with each stylus, which will be made of aluminium, just like the case of the X3. The tip will be made of rubber, while the clip is made of brass and iron. The only part made of nylon will be the lanyard.
Despite being designed and targeted toward the enterprise market, the Elite X3 could see some obstacles in its way of bringing Windows 10 productivity to all who desire it. This holds true especially in the United States, as the gadget might not be compatible with Verizon's full LTE band, namely band 13.
However, there is hope for Verizon subscribers who are keen on purchasing the device. The Elite X3 simply has to pass Verizon's certification process first. Whether this proves to be a win or a fail for the smartphone remains to be seen.
We are looking forward to seeing how HP will handle putting the Elite X3 on the enterprise map. Some insiders from the tech world speculate that the Elite X3 can be seen as a prototype for the upcoming Microsoft Surface Phone.
Are you excited about the upcoming Windows 10 Mobile carrying smartphone? Let us know in the comments section below.
