HTC Hero: Best Android phone yet
Sprint’s HTC Hero is a great smartphone.
I was really impressed when I first saw one at a sneak preview a few months ago.
Since then, the hardware has changed a bit – but HTC’s innovative, new “Sense” interface/home screen is still a terrific addition to a basic Android phone- and the Hero is now even better than I remembered it.
Here’s what you need to know: Sprint’s 3G-connected touchscreen device measures 4.5 by 2.2 by 0.5 inches and weighs 4.5 ounces.
The rechargeable, 1,500mAh Lithium-ion battery is estimated to be good for as much as 5 hours of talk time. Remember: your mileage may vary!
The still/video camera on the back measures 5 megapixels.
Features include: Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), Bluetooth, GPS navigation, a microSD memory card expansion slot, media player (audio and video), Web browsing, Voice Command and voice activated dialing, Visual voicemail, Android Market downloads, Document viewing, full Gmail/contacts and calendar synchronization, NFL Mobile network, NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile, Sprint TV Live and lots more.
I think you’re getting the idea. This is one heckuva mobile device.
Here’s the best part: everything works! The 3G has locked onto a signal nearly everywhere I’ve tried – even far Eastern Long Island (where you have to choose your location very carefully to get any cell phone to work at all).
Haven’t had to deal with a single dropped voice call anywhere.
The phone was easy to set-up and a dream to use. I took to the HTC Hero immediately and it responded in a like manner. I take it with me everywhere I go. I follow NFL games wherever I am. I watch Sprint TV whenever I can. My Gmail is easier to read and respond to on the Hero than on my BlackBerry or other smartphones.
You get the idea. I really, really like the Hero.
I did find a few things I would like to see improved. The processor is OK – but in light of some future designs I’ve gotten to play with recently, the Hero could use an overall speed boost.
The on-screen keyboard is a touch small. I’m not a big fan of tiny, touchscreen keyboards and the Hero’s in no exception. A Hero with a larger screen might also provide a larger keyboard.
And finally, I found a sharp edge on the bottom of the phone. I was able to “hammer it down” a drop so that all the edges are smooth. I’m guessing this was a pre/early production flaw and will never been noticed by another end user.
The Hero should be hitting Sprint stores this week (if they’re not in stock right now). It will cost you $179.99 with a 2-year service contract. (That’s $479.99 minus $200 instant rebate – plus a $100 mail-in rebate. I’m not sure why they don’t just charge you $180 and get the whole thing over with.
Sprint/HTC’s Hero is just one of more than a dozen Android-based smartphones hitting the market before the holidays, this year. If they’re all this good – smartphone owners will have to take notice.
Sprint’s HTC Hero is highly recommended.