3D interface of new smartphone to drive RP sales

MANILA, Philippines - Taiwan-based manufacturer HTC Corp. is betting on its new flagship product to drive the local market for “converged devices" because its new device has what it claims to be a revolutionary 3D user interface. HTC said it is optimistic that its HTC Diamond smartphone will “bring in the numbers" for the company this year even if it is pitted against other popular devices, including the Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Omnia. The HTC Diamond phone running on Microsoft Windows Mobile features the Touch Flo 3D touch screen interface which is why it has been compared to the iPhone and the Omnia. But HTC said the 3D interface is not just an add-on to the Windows Mobile. Melvin Chua, Product Marketing Manager of HTC Singapore, said HTC integrated the Touch Flo interface to make the user experience simpler and fun. “We are optimistic that HTC Diamond will bring in the numbers for this type of devices," said Chua. “It will drive the market for the converged devices segment. It will be one of the key contributors to the sales of HTC devices in the Philippines." Aside from the HTC Diamond, also locally distributed are the HTC Touch and Cruise models, among others. HTC Diamond, with its diamond cut design at the back of the black device measuring 102 mm X 51 mm X 11.35 mm, offers HSDPA capabilities, enabling faster access to the Web and other Web-enable applications. Chua said that the company has already spoken to leading local operators Globe Telecom and Smart Communications which have agreed to bundle the HTC Diamond in their offerings when the unit becomes available starting mid-July. He said they’re also talking to Sun Cellular. “Its operating system is one of the most versatile platforms for [big] enterprises, and small and medium enterprises. It is the preferred choice for the mobile workforce," said Chua. “We expect users to accept its form and design." But he clarified that companies are not the only target market for the HTC Diamond. “The target [market] is all consumers … the 3D interface will enhance the end-user experience. It is for lifestyle users and text-heavy users [offering] no compromise," he said. Chua explained that it is called a flagship product because it took two years in the making with an original design concept from its own chief executive officer. This dispels market perception that HTC and its Touch Flo touch screen interface is riding on the popularity of other touch screen devices already in the market. “HTC Diamond is a class of its own," said Chua when asked to react to reports that it is being pitted against the iPhone. “We consider ourselves as our greatest competitor." It is also no coincidence that HTC is launching its latest touch screen device a quarter earlier than the reported availability of the much-hyped touch screen smartphone, the iPhone. Chua said the company has been ready with the device but the testing period—as part of the country’s regulatory policy—took some time before the device can be made available in the Philippines. Smartphone devices, since they’re emitting radio signals, have to be approved for testing before they’re made generally available in the country. HTC Diamond retails for P41,800 and will also be available in other computer retail shops. - Veronica C. Silva, GMANews.TV