Sprint announced today that it will be the first U.S. carrier to offer Google’s Android operating system on HTC’s Hero smartphone, slated to launch on October 11.
The HTC Hero will be available on the Sprint website and at retailer Best Buy for $179.
“The arrival of HTC Hero and the Android platform to Sprint’s network is an important milestone for our customers and the U.S. wireless industry,” said Kevin Packingham, senior vice president of product development for Sprint.
Kevin Packingham
Senior Vice President
Product Development
Sprint
“With the dependability and coverage of Sprint’s 3G network, HTC Hero users will appreciate a much better experience than is possible now with any other Android phone operating in the United States. They will enjoy the robust potential to personalize their wireless experience as well as the best value in wireless with a Simply Everything plan from Sprint.”
HTC Hero is the first U.S. device to feature HTC Sense, which lets users customize the phone.
HTC Hero users will be able to switch between what the company calls “Scenes” to reflect different roles in their lives, such as work and social. For example, users will be able to set up stock updates, work and email calendar, music, weather and a Twitter feed.
“HTC Sense on HTC Hero revolves around three basic principles: Make it Mine, Stay Close and Discover the Unexpected,” said Jason Mackenzie, vice president of HTC America.
“These principles are based on the recognition that people want their mobile device to conform to their needs and wants, easily keep them in touch with the most important people in their lives, and surprise them with small moments of joy and delight.”
The Hero can be silenced by turning it over. It offers a smart dialer for accessing contacts with just a few letters and a search key that automatically searches for information related to the current function.
