We previously heard that the launch of the HTC First in the UK would be cancelled. The device had been available for pre-order from UK carrier EE, and now they have confirmed that the handset will not be launching on their network. Customers who have pre-ordered the device will not receive the handset.
Facebook Home and Customer Feedback
“Following customer feedback, Facebook has decided to focus on adding new customisation features to Facebook Home over the coming months. While they are working to make a better Facebook Home experience, they have recommended holding off launching the HTC First in the UK, and so we will shortly be contacting those who registered their interest with us to let them know of this decision.
Rest assured, we remain committed to bringing our customers the latest mobile experiences, and we will continue to build on our strong relationship with Facebook so as to offer customers new opportunities in the future.”
Facebook Home was a significant part of the HTC First’s appeal, integrating deeply with the Android operating system to provide a unique user experience centered around Facebook. However, the feedback from users indicated that the initial version of Facebook Home did not meet their expectations. Many users found the interface to be intrusive and lacking in essential features that they were accustomed to on other Android devices. This feedback has led Facebook to reconsider its approach and focus on improving the customization options and overall user experience of Facebook Home before proceeding with further launches.
Impact on HTC and Future Prospects
The decision to halt the launch of the HTC First in the UK is a significant setback for HTC, which has been struggling to regain its foothold in the competitive smartphone market. The HTC First was one of the first devices to feature Facebook Home out of the box, and its cancellation could affect HTC’s plans to collaborate with other software developers for exclusive features.
There is no official statement from HTC as yet. As soon as we get some more information, we will let you guys know. The delay also raises questions about the future of Facebook Home itself. Will Facebook be able to address the concerns raised by users and deliver a product that enhances the mobile experience without being overly intrusive? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, EE has assured its customers that they remain committed to bringing the latest mobile experiences to their network. They have emphasized their strong relationship with Facebook and their intention to offer new opportunities in the future. This commitment is crucial for maintaining customer trust and ensuring that future product launches are met with enthusiasm rather than skepticism.
The HTC First’s cancellation in the UK serves as a reminder of the challenges that tech companies face when introducing new products and features. User feedback is invaluable, and companies must be willing to adapt and improve based on that feedback to succeed in the long term. For now, both HTC and Facebook will need to go back to the drawing board to ensure that their next offerings meet the high expectations of their users.
Source Pocket Lint
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