Review: HTC HD7 (16gb)

The HTC HD7 handset hardware is based was the hardware originally used for the Windows Mobile 6.5 based HTC HD2 handset (and later the HTC Evo 4G). At the time of writing this handset is not available via Telcos in New Zealand or from HTC's official NZ distributors. It is available however through parallel import and mail order type channels.

On 21 October a press release from HTC stated that Telecom NZ would be launching the HD7 on that day in New Zealand. Unfortunately that wasn't the case and the NZ version of press release was updated with Telecom removed. Interestingly HTC's US website still lists Telecom NZ in the Press Release (as at 1 Jan 2011) as the NZ carrier for the HD 7. Maybe they will launch it here this year?

This article refers to the 16gb model released in Asia - however there is an 8gb model released in Europe however there seems little difference in pricing.

Feaures include:

• 4.3" Display
• 5mp Still Camera
• 720p HD Video Camera
• Dual LED Flash and Torch/Flashlight App
• 16gb Storage, 512mb ROM, 576mb RAM
• 1ghz CPU
• Bluetooth 2.1
• Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
• 3.5mm stereo audio jack
• MicroUSB connector
• Weight: 162 grams (5.7 ounces)
• Size: 68mm x 11.2mm x 122mm (2.68" x 0.44" x 4.8")
• Standard Windows Phone 7 hardware features: GPS, G-Sensor, Digital compass, Proximity sensor, Ambient light sensor
• Standard Windows Phone 7 software features: Synchronisation of email/contacts/calendar (Exchange, Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo, etc), Zune Music/Video/Podcast Hub, Xbox Live, Internet Explorer, Maps app, Facebook Integration, Pictures Hub, People Hub, fully upgradable OS.
• Bundled HTC Exclusive Apps: HTC Hub, YouTube, Photo Enhancer, Sound Enhancer, Stocks, Notes, Converter, Flashlight, Love, Lists, Calculator, Attentive Phone, Connection Setup
• Chasis Type: 1

This is an stunning handset, with solid battery life. Thanks to the new Windows Phone 7 software and fast CPU it is very easy to use and feels smooth and slick, and the home screen with 'Live Tiles' and hub access is outstanding. When compared with competitive offerings featuring Google Android or Apple iOS (iPhone) it represents extremely good value for money.

The main area where the HTC HD7 stands out compared to other Windows Phone 7 handsets in NZ is the large 16gb storage and massive 4.3" screen (109mm).

There are a number of software improvements that would be great to see - however we expect to see an update from Microsoft within the next few weeks that will address some complaints such as the lack of copy and paste. Overall however, this is my favourite smartphone currently - and I have tried a lot of handsets from all the major players. The only downside is that it's a little tricky to get your hands on.

Official Network: None

Compatible Networks: Vodafone NZ, 2degrees

NZ Price Range: $850 - $1250

Rating (as at 21 October 2010): 4.5/5

Comments

[Kev.]

Great review I brought this phone two weeks ago and are very impressed and my previous phone was a iPhone 3GS. Flicking between screens there is no pause and the phones hardware is more than enough for the job. Great price just over $500 NZ for a 4.3 slab of screen real-estate Date July 6 11. PS I'm liking the Win 7 OS.

[Cell Ocean]

I have used a lot of phones and found that WP7 is the worst one. I think android is better and OS 6.5 is also better than the OS of <A HREF=“HTTP://CELLOCEAN.COM/HD7_SPECIFICATIONS-505.HTML”>HTC HD7</A>.