The HTC Evo 4G smartphone is scheduled for release by Sprint on June 4. The first 4G phone in the United States will retail for $199.99 after rebate and two year Sprint contract. Consumers will be able to purchase the device directly through Sprint or at Best Buy, Wal-Mart, or Radio Shack stores.
In terms of a data plan, Evo 4G users will be required to purchase the Everything plan for data through Sprint. The Everything plan rates begin at $69.99 monthly with 450 anytime minutes. Evo 4G users will also need to pay $10 for an add on premium data service for WiMax, even if they do not live in Sprint 4G coverage areas. The logic behind this is that users may obtain 4G coverage when traveling in areas that support 4G.
The Sprint 4G network currently extends to 32 markets and is expanding daily. 4G coverage is anticipated to reach a total of 50 markets by December 2010. It may seem rather pointless to pay the data add on if getting 4G coverage is not a possibility, but the service will include unlimited data, whether 3G or 4G is being used. Evo 4G users who want their phones to function as a Wi-Fi mobile hotspot and enable connection of eight other devices will need to pay an additional $29.99 monthly for this luxury.
The Evo 4G includes the ability to multitask between data and voice. It is the first smartphone that contains a the Qik app for video chat and YouTube HQ. The device will also feature HDMI output and 3D gaming functionality. The Evo 4G operates on Android 2.1, has a Snapdragon 1GHz processor, a camera boasting 8 megapixels, and a nicely sized 4.3 inch touch screen.
The HTC Evo 4G will be released in less than a month and it is already causing quite a stir. The amount of features on this Android smartphone, including new YouTube HQ player and video chat from Qik, are very impressive. Gamers will love the HDMI output and 3D gaming features. The Sprint 4G service, though it covers a limited area, is lightening fast. However, the cost for the required data and add on plans, not to mention Wi-Fi hotspot functionality, will make the Evo 4G quite an expensive phone from an ongoing cost perspective.
You must log in to post a comment.