Despite its confusing name, the new HTC One (M8) packs a punch by combining the best aspects of design and functionality to make an impressive device that stacks up well against its competitors.
Specs
The new HTC One (M8) comes with a top-of-the-line Qualcomm 2.3GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 processor that will be on par with the Galaxy S5.
Another major improvement is an impressive 2600 mAh battery that yields a 40% increase in battery life over its predecessor, and overshadows the likes of the Moto X and iPhone 5S.
The new 5-inch, 1080p screen is a slight increase over the original HTC One’s 4.7-inch display, and just shy of the Galaxy S5’s 5.1-inch display with equivalent resolution.
The HTC One (M8) will run Android 4.4 (KitKat) out of the box and feature the sixth iteration of the HTC Sense overlay, which will be available to current users later this spring.
Key Improvements
Metal body
One of my favorite things about the HTC One (new and old) is its full metal body. The durable casing has a distinct weight and feel that seems solid compared to other devices. The new HTC One (M8) is now 90% metal, compared with 70% on its predecessor. It also features more tapered edges that make it easier to hold and comes in three different colors with a brushed metal texture. Best Buy has an exclusive on the Amber Gold color. My grade is A for aesthetics.
UltraPixel Camera
The HTC UltraPixel Camera is even more impressive this time around with new features that help you take the best photos possible. Duo Cameras on the back of the phone (previously seen on 3D devices) now serve to capture depth, making it easy to change the focus of your photo even after it’s taken. Take brilliant day or nighttime shots adding pro effects effortlessly and choose where to focus and soften backgrounds. Selfie-taking users will love the front facing camera boost from 2.1 megapixels on the original HTC One, to a wide-angle, 5.0-megapixel camera on the M8.
Extra storage
One of the major annoyances with the original HTC One was its lack of external storage. The New HTC One (M8) addresses this by adding a microSD card slot in addition to its 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. Simple, but essential – Hooray!
Motion gestures
The new HTC One has also added some essential motion gestures. Instead of hitting the physical power button every time you want to check your phone, swiping up will wake up a dormant screen. Another notable gesture: pressing the volume button while holding the phone landscape will activate the camera – love!
While Samsung Galaxy seems to get all the attention, if you’re in the market for a new smartphone I wholeheartedly recommend the new HTC One (M8). Customers looking for the latest and greatest won’t be disappointed with this powerhouse device that also has great style, unique features, and a top-rated past.