By Keri Algar
SYDNEY, NSW: HTC has announced it will release its latest pocket-sized smartphone in mid October, exclusively through Optus' retail distributors.
It is the seventh device launched by HTC in 2010 in Australia, concurrent with the increasing popularity of Android’s share of the global smartphone market, which has increased from 1.8 per cent in 2009 to 17.2 per cent in 2010, according to Anthony Petts, HTC sales and marketing director.
The Aria features Android 2.1 functionality, a 5-megapixel camera, a 3.2-inch HVGA display, full flash support browser and a polite ring and flip feature that lowers the ring volume when the phone is picked up and turns the ring off when the phone is turned over. The pocket-sized mobile also features HTC Sense and Friend Stream, which aggregates social media updates into the same flow.
“The HTC Aria’s unique combination of compact size and beautiful design instantly separates HTC Aria from other devices on the market,” said Petts.
“By putting people at the centre of everything it does, HTC Aria streamlines and organises all of your communication.”
Optus is offering the Aria for $0 upfront on a $49 cap, including 1GB of data, $450 of calls and unlimited social networking.