HTC recently announced two new smartphones, the HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa, which have been called the Facebook Phones because of a dedicated Facebook button and the way Facebook has been integrated into the handsets.
We heard previously that Orange UK would stock the HTC ChaCha, although we didn’t have any UK launch date, but now it looks like these new Facebook Phones will land in the UK in June.
Online retailer Expansys has them listed on their website with a shipping date of the 18th of June 2011. Unfortunately, there are still no details on pricing. As soon as we get some more information, we will let you guys know.
Features of HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa
The HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa are designed with social media enthusiasts in mind. The standout feature of these smartphones is the dedicated Facebook button, which allows users to share content, photos, and updates with a single press. This integration makes it easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family on Facebook.
The HTC ChaCha features a physical QWERTY keyboard, making it ideal for users who prefer tactile feedback while typing. This can be particularly useful for those who frequently send messages or update their social media statuses. On the other hand, the HTC Salsa offers a more traditional touchscreen experience, catering to users who prefer a sleek and modern design.
Both phones run on Android, providing access to a wide range of apps and services through the Google Play Store. They also come equipped with HTC Sense, a user interface that enhances the overall user experience with customizable widgets and intuitive navigation.
Specifications and Performance
In terms of specifications, the HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa are equipped with mid-range hardware that ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. Both phones are powered by a 600 MHz processor, which, while not the most powerful on the market, is sufficient for handling social media apps, web browsing, and basic multitasking.
The HTC ChaCha features a 2.6-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 480 x 320 pixels. This compact screen size is complemented by the physical keyboard, making it a unique choice for users who value both touch and type input methods. The HTC Salsa, on the other hand, boasts a larger 3.4-inch touchscreen display with the same resolution, providing a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and web browsing.
Both smartphones come with a 5-megapixel rear camera, capable of capturing decent photos and videos. Additionally, they include a VGA front-facing camera for video calls and selfies. The inclusion of these cameras ensures that users can easily capture and share moments on social media.
Storage-wise, the HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa offer 512 MB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card slot. This allows users to store more photos, videos, and apps without worrying about running out of space.
Market Reception and Availability
The announcement of the HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa generated significant buzz, particularly among younger users and social media enthusiasts. The dedicated Facebook button was a novel feature at the time, setting these phones apart from other smartphones on the market.
As mentioned earlier, Orange UK is expected to stock the HTC ChaCha, and online retailer Expansys has listed both phones with a shipping date of the 18th of June 2011. While pricing details are still unavailable, the mid-range specifications suggest that these phones will be competitively priced, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers.
The HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa represent a unique approach to smartphone design, with a strong emphasis on social media integration. The dedicated Facebook button and user-friendly features make these phones an attractive option for those who prioritize staying connected with their social networks. As we await further details on pricing and availability, it’s clear that HTC has tapped into a growing market of social media-savvy users with these innovative devices.
via TFTS
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