Partial HTC Max 4G review published
For most of us a HTC Max 4G is an aspirational device, but we would not shell out money for a device whose only language is Russian, and who’s services are all tied to a service only available there.
Most of us, but not the owner of the Thoughts and technology blog, who bought a Max 4G and put it through its paces, despite not reading Russian
His conclusion is unsurprisingly:
I couldn’t enjoy the full benefit of using Yota’s services, nor could I enjoy the phone due to my poor Russian (hahaha…). The phone is a little large for most people’s preference, but the big screen certainly is better than the tiny Diamond. But this device certainly sets a benchmark for all WiMAX devices to come.
Read the full review to see how he got on here.
HTC MAX 4G press release makes you want to move to Russia
The HTC MAX 4G does not really have relevance to most of the world, but I do think it is a good model of the level of service and integration that is required to be competitive these days in the mobile phone market.
When reading the press release look out for features like video on demand with TV out, TV channels, streaming and downloadable music, ebooks, instant messaging, maps, video and picture upload, VOIP and a slew of other features and services.
We can see similar efforts in Nokia’s Ovi and of course the iPhone ecosystem, but Scartel and HTC’s implementation seems by far the most compelling and complete. One can only hope similarly ambitious services can be implemented in more accessible markets.
Read the press release below.
SCARTEL AND HTC LAUNCH WORLD’S FIRST INTEGRATED GSM/WIMAX HANDSET
Designed and Optimized for the Russian market, HTC MAXTM 4G Will Be Available in Russia on November 26th
Moscow, Russia – Scartel (brand Yota), Russian provider of Mobile WiMAX, and HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile phone innovation and design, has announced the HTC MAX 4G, the world’s first integrated GSM/WiMAX handset. Supported by a broad range of services based on Yota’s Mobile WiMAX network, the HTC MAX 4G delivers a rich multimedia and high quality telephony experience in a sleek and powerful touch screen handset.
“Yota was established to provide a unique set of mobile communication services to millions of people in Russia and today we have launched the first device and services to realise its full potential,” said Denis Sverdlov, General Director of Yota’s parent company, Scartel LLC (brand Yota). “We really believe that these innovative services, high-speed Internet and stylish HTC MAX 4G will completely change the communications industry, just as the introduction of cellular communications did many years ago.”
HTC MAX 4G: A New World of Entertainment
The Yota Mobile WiMAX network offers high-speed wireless Internet access that opens a new realm of entertainment and communication possibilities. The basic Yota Home package will provide subscribers with instant access to online games, maps, messaging and file exchange applications while on the move. In addition, the high-capacity Mobile WiMAX network with traffic prioritisation algorithms, allows online films, video and TV programmes to be viewed on the large WVGA screen.
Thanks to mobile WiMAX, high-quality multimedia entertainment is no longer limited. With Yota Video, a full video on demand (VOD) service, users can watch their favourite movies and videos from their personal Yota catalogue anytime, anywhere.
Broadcasting 14 free channels at launch and 23 channels by the end of 2008, Yota TV introduces a powerful mobile television experience. The vibrant, 3.8 inch 800×480 screen of the HTC MAX 4G can display up to nine TV channels simultaneously, allowing quick and easy channel surfing and programme selection. Thanks to the device’s TV-out capability, users can also watch content on the big screen, putting the HTC MAX 4G at the very heart of the mobile entertainment experience.
For music-lovers, Yota Music offers an extensive online music catalogue of more than 50,000 titles, including a wide range of music from both international and independent music labels. Users can choose to either play the tracks direct from the online catalogue, or download them to the HTC MAX 4G’s 8GB of onboard flash memory.
In addition, a separate catalogue of electronic books is available, so users can download, read and enjoy a broad range of books while on the move.
”The introduction of the HTC MAX 4G represents the culmination of a close partnership between HTC and Yota to develop the world’s first integrated mobile GSM/WIMAX handset,” said Peter Chou, CEO and President, HTC Corporation. “Russia is a key strategic market for HTC and Yota’s Mobile WiMAX network sets a new global benchmark for next-generation mobile services.”
HTC MAX 4G: Flexible Communication
The HTC MAX 4G supports GSM calls using a SIM card from any Russian network operator and when both callers are Yota subscribers, the call will automatically be routed as a VoIP call over the Yota Mobile WiMAX network. The Yota Phone service also supports more business applications, allowing users to switch between English and Russian contact records while providing functionality such as call holding, conference calling and video calling using the VGA camera on the front of the device.
HTC MAX 4G: Unparalleled Performance With Intuitive Usability
The HTC MAX 4G was created to take full advantage of Yota’s high-speed Mobile WiMAX network without compromising style or ease of use. The device is sleek and elegant and includes a vibrant, large 3.8 inch, 800×480 WVGA touch screen display. Running Windows Mobile 6.1, the HTC MAX 4G incorporates HTC’s proprietary Touch FLO 3D user interface, allowing swift and intuitive navigation to key applications such as dialling calls, listening to music, taking picture and more.
Introduction of Yota Yap-yap
HTC MAX 4G users can now record their lives through a lens thanks to Yota’s Yap-yap service. This allows contacts to be synchronised and edited through the Web and video clips and photos can also be uploaded to www.yota.ru. Images taken with the integrated 5MP camera can also be geo-tagged using coordinates from the integrated GPS.
Key HTC MAX 4G specifications:
Processor: Qualcomm® ESM7206A™ 528 MHz
Platform: Windows Mobile® 6.1 Professional
Memory: ROM: 256MB / RAM: 288MB / Flash: 8 GB
Dimensions: 113.5mm X 63.1mm X 13.9mm
Weight: 151 grams (with battery)
Display: 3.8-inch TFT-LCD flat touch-sensitive screen with 480 x 800 WVGA resolution
Network:
Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE:900/1800/1900 MHz
Yota Mobile WiMAX 2,5-2.7 GHz
Device Control: TouchFLO™ 3D
GPS: Inbuilt GPS
Connections:
VoIP
Wi-Fi®: IEEE 802.11 b/g
Bluetooth® 2.0 with EDR
HTC ExtUSB™
Main camera: High-resolution with autofocus
Second: VGA-camera
Additional:
Motion G-sensor (automatically rotating picture)
Proximity sensor (saving energy while talking due to the switching the display off)
FM-radio
Audio: Ring tone formats:
AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, QCP, MP3, WMA, WAV
40 polyphonic and standard MIDI format 0 and 1 (SMF)/SP MIDI
Battery: Li-Pol, 1500 mAh
Talk time:
GSM: up to 420 minutes
VoIP: up to 230 minutes
Standby time:
GSM: up to 350 hours
VoIP: up to 50 hours
AC Adapter: Voltage range/frequency: 100 ~ 240V AC, 50/60 Hz
DC output: 5V and 1A
Source: HTC Press release.
HTC Max 4G going down under?
So far we have had to be content to admire the HTC Max 4G from afar (unless you are Russian of course).
As far as we knew the HTC Max 4G was a Russian exclusive, never to be seen anywhere else in the world. This may be a very false assumption however, according to China Economic News. According to them HTC is also planning to bring the super smartphone to Australia before the end of the year.
It is unknown which WIMAX provider will be getting the phone, but Unwired’s CEO has had only good things to say about the device.
Of course, if Australia can get the Max, can Baltimore be far behind?
Another HTC Max 4G video
I don’t think we will have enough video to do a daily HTC Max 4G series, but here is another one which shows a bit more of the UI and the feature integration.
If I were Sprint I would get this device ASAP, to ignite interest in its XOHM WIMAX network.
Video of the HTC Max 4G in action
Just when the Daily HTC Touch HD video series finished, we have a new contender to pluck at our wallet strings, and now, just like the American audience for the HTC Touch HD, most of the world can only look in in yearning while a only few million Russians have a swing at HTC’s latest device.
This video shows the HTC Max 4G in action, and at one stage apparently shows the device streaming 9 video streams simultaneously!
For those living in a cave the last few weeks, the HTC Max 4G is of course HTC’s latest smartphone, featuring a 800×480 screen, WiMax and GSM, 5 megapixel camera, 8 GB storage plus microSD expansion, all the usuals plus a 3.5mm headphone jack. It seems the device will remained confined to the Scartel Yota WiMax network, which only covers Moscow and St Petersburg at present.
Via Physorg.com
HTC T8290 gets real, now HTC Max 4G
HTC has released details of the much leaked HTC T8920, the Wimax device exclusive to the Russian Yota network. The device would be the best specced Windows Mobile device so far, featuring 8GB internal memory and of course the 4G WIMAX connectivity.
Press Release
SCARTEL AND HTC LAUNCH WORLD’S FIRST INTEGRATED GSM/WIMAX HANDSET
Designed and Optimized for the Russian market, HTC MAX 4Gä Will Be Available in Russia on November 26th
Moscow, Russia – November 12, 2008 – Scartel (brand Yota), Russian provider of Mobile WiMAX, and HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile phone innovation and design, today announced the HTC MAX 4G, the world’s first integrated GSM/WiMAX handset. Supported by a broad range of services based on Yota’s Mobile WiMAX network, the HTC MAX 4G delivers a rich multimedia and high quality telephony experience in a sleek and powerful touch screen handset.
“Yota was established to provide a unique set of mobile communication services to millions of people in Russia and today we have launched the first device and services to realise its full potential,” said Denis Sverdlov, General Director of Yota’s parent company, Scartel LLC (brand Yota). “We really believe that these innovative services, high-speed Internet and stylish HTC MAX 4G will completely change the communications industry, just as the introduction of cellular communications did many years ago.”
HTC MAX 4G: A New World of Entertainment
The Yota Mobile WiMAX network offers high-speed wireless Internet access that opens a new realm of entertainment and communication possibilities. The basic Yota Home package will provide subscribers with instant access to online games, maps, messaging and file exchange applications while on the move. In addition, the high-capacity Mobile WiMAX network with traffic prioritisation algorithms, allows online films, video and TV programmes to be viewed on the large WVGA screen.
Thanks to mobile WiMAX, high-quality multimedia entertainment is no longer limited.. With Yota Video, a full video on demand (VOD) service, users can watch their favourite movies and videos from their personal Yota catalogue anytime, anywhere.
Broadcasting 14 free channels at launch and 23 channels by the end of 2008, Yota TV introduces a powerful mobile television experience. The vibrant, 3.8 inch 800×480 screen of the HTC MAX 4G can display up to nine TV channels simultaneously, allowing quick and easy channel surfing and programme selection. Thanks to the device’s TV-out capability, users can also watch content on the big screen, putting the HTC MAX 4G at the very heart of the mobile entertainment experience.
For music-lovers, Yota Music offers an extensive online music catalogue of more than 50,000 titles, including a wide range of music from both international and independent music labels. Users can choose to either play the tracks direct from the online catalogue, or download them to the HTC MAX 4G’s 8GB of onboard flash memory.
In addition, a separate catalogue of electronic books is available, so users can download, read and enjoy a broad range of books while on the move. “The introduction of the HTC MAX 4G represents the culmination of a close partnership between HTC and Yota to develop the world’s first integrated mobile GSM/WIMAX handset,” said Peter Chou, CEO and President, HTC Corporation. “Russia is a key strategic market for HTC and Yota’s Mobile WiMAX network sets a new global benchmark for next-generation mobile services.”
HTC MAX 4G: Flexible Communication
The HTC MAX 4G supports GSM calls using a SIM card from any Russian network operator and when both callers are Yota subscribers, the call will automatically be routed as a VoIP call over the Yota Mobile WiMAX network. The Yota Phone service also supports more business applications, allowing users to switch between English and Russian contact records while providing functionality such as call holding, conference calling and video calling using the VGA camera on the front of the device.
HTC MAX 4G: Unparalleled Performance With Intuitive Usability
The HTC MAX 4G was created to take full advantage of Yota’s high-speed Mobile WiMAX network without compromising style or ease of use. The device is sleek and elegant and includes a vibrant, large 3.8 inch, 800×480 WVGA touch screen display. The HTC MAX 4G also integrates a 3.5mm headphone jack to create the best possible experience for enjoying movies, music and photos on the go. Running Windows Mobile 6.1, the HTC MAX 4G incorporates HTC’s proprietary Touch FLO 3D user interface, allowing swift and intuitive navigation to key applications such as dialling calls, listening to music, taking picture and more.
Introduction of Yota Yap-yap
HTC MAX 4G users can now record their lives through a lens thanks to Yota’s Yap-yap service. This allows contacts to be synchronised and edited through the Web and video clips and photos can also be uploaded to www.yota.ru. Images taken with the integrated 5MP camera can also be geo-tagged using coordinates from the integrated GPS.
Specs
- Processor: Qualcomm® ESM7206A™ 528 MHz
- Platform: Windows Mobile® 6.1 Professional
- Memory: ROM: 256MB / RAM: 288MB / Flash: 8 GB
- Dimensions: 113.5mm X 63.1mm X 13.9mm
- Weight: 151 grams (with battery)
- Display: 3.8-inch TFT-LCD flat touch-sensitive screen with 480 x 800 WVGA resolution
- Network: Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE:900/1800/1900 MHz Yota Mobile WiMAX 2,5-2.7 GHz
- Device Control: TouchFLO™ 3D
- GPS: Inbuilt GPS
- Connections: VoIP, Wi-Fi®: IEEE 802.11 b/g, Bluetooth® 2.0 with EDR, HTC ExtUSB™
- Main camera: High-resolution with autofocus
- Second: VGA-camera
- Additional: Motion G-sensor (automatically rotating picture), Proximity sensor (saving energy while talking due to the switching the display off), FM-radio
- Audio: Ring tone formats:AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, QCP, MP3, WMA, WAV, 40 polyphonic and standard MIDI format 0 and 1 (SMF)/SP MIDI
- Battery: Li-Pol, 1500 mAh
- Talk time: GSM: up to 420 minutes, VoIP: up to 230 minutes
- Standby time: GSM: up to 350 hours, VoIP: up to 50 hours
- AC Adapter: Voltage range/frequency: 100 ~ 240V AC, 50/60 Hz, DC output: 5V and 1A
In addition to these published specs we believe the device has a 5 megapixel camera, TV out and infrared.
Via WMExperts.com
More on the HTC T8290
A bit more information on the HTC T8290 has leaked onto the web, and for Sprint Wimax users it is not great news.
Apparently the device has been commissioned and designed for the new Russian Wimax carrier Skartel, who retains all the rights to the distribution of the smartphone. They have specifically requested a large high-resolution screen for use with the streaming video service (but clearly forgot about the 3.5mm headphone jack). Originally the device was to be designed by Art Lebedev Studios, but they refused to do only the external appearance, and di not have the expertise to do the electronics inside also. Its clear however that the angular styling HTC finally went with had some roots in the original Lebedev look.
Only a few thousand of the exclusive devices have been ordered, and Skartel is only testing its network right now, but has plans to expand the network to cover Moscow and St Petersburg pretty soon. Despite the small volume of devices however the smartphone is not expected to cost much more than the HTC Diamond, and on par with the iPhone 3G in Russia. Skartel may distribute the device to Venezuela eventually, where it also has a Wimax network in development.
So bad news for American Wimax users hoping the device will soon arrive on western shores. However apparently Skartel only paid around $1 million to develop the device, so if any network wanted to have one for themselves it seems a pretty cheap investment.
Source:CNews
HTC T8290 claimed specs
Sim-unlocker claims to know the real specs of the HTC T8290. They claim the device’s HTC codename is the HTC Quartz, and features:
- Processor: QUALCOMM(R) ESM7206A @ 528MHz
- Cellular networks: GSM850, GSM900, GSM1800, GSM1900, UMTS900, UMTS2100
- Cellular Data connections: CSD, GPRS, EDGE, 3G/UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA
- TouchScreen: WVGA 480 x 800 TFT 3.8 ” (65536 scales) MDDI Samsung S3CA460
- ROM: 512MB
- RAM: 256MB or 128MB
- Mobile WiMAX: 802.16e (chipset Sequans SQN1130)
- Wi-Fi: 802.11b/g with VoWLAN capabilities (VoIP enabled)
- microSD, microSDHC, TransFlash and SDIO support
- Built-in GPS
- Built-in accelerometer (GSensor)
- TV-Out
- 5 Megapixel Camera
- IrDA
While the rest of the specs are now pretty standard for such a high-end device from HTC, the return of infra-red seems rather unusual.
Via MSMobiles.com
HTC T8290 – only 1710 models before we are all Terminated
If some-one told me HTC has developed AI which is beavering in its headquarters designing its new generation phones, I would not have believed it. Until today of course. With the HTC T8290 popping up on nedge2K I am prepared to believe the cellphone manufacturer can do anything.
The T8290 has apparently been developed specifically for Russia’s nascent Yota Wimax network, which apparently at present covers 20 million citizens. The device makes good use of this too, easily achieving 14 Mb/sec speeds, useful for displaying web pages on its gigantic 3.8 inch 800×480 screen. The phone also has the usual complement of GSM and WIFI, keeping you connected everywhere.
The photos we have seen so far show a full-face device with even less buttons than the Touch HD. The device however appears more angular and deeper, likely to to accommodate the gigantic battery we will need to carry around to make the best of the high speed connectivity
Pictures and info from Nedge2k.com.
Thanks John Slater for bringing this development to our attention.
Scan QR Codes, UPC, EAN, Code 39/128 or ITF barcodes on your Windows Phone 7 to find best prices online.
Enjoy slots? Blackjack? Video Poker? Play Crazy Casino FREE!
#1 FREE Solitaire on WP7
If your a fan of Pong then you will love this game. Heavenly Skies. Save the universe! Are you ready?
A rewarding mix of match 3 and tetris gameplay
Free, Live Tile support for Word Of The Day and so much more. Why NOT try it out?
Set up reminders with only two taps. Supports also text reminders and voice reminders.
Download the best puzzle game in WP7 Marketplace for FREE!
Are you a good Alchemist ?
Use your brain to discover Atomic Energy, Chuck Norris, Angry Birds and 1400 more !
Fun puzzle game with over 150 levels!
Fully featured, beautifully designed WP7 YouTube app.
u.n.i MEGA PACK (FREE), the ultimate addictive top GAMES bundle for Windows Phone 7! 7+ and growing!
Highly addictive word game designed for adrenaline junkies. Practice locally, but then are you fast enough to compete online?
Livescape is an activity and nutrition journal that features GPS tracking and the ability to count steps!
The smartest Google reader app.
Air Soccer Tour - Addictive FREE swipe soccer game. Win the world cup.
Beat the Story Mode. When your done Bring your skill online. Rank up by winning online matches. Have 1 on 1's with anyone! Global Online Multiplayer!
Never miss a bill again, now with a double-sided Live Tile and pop-up reminders.
Newest devices leaks, online charts and ultimate performance benchmark for every Windows Phone.
Every day, get great app deals from Windows Phone developers pushed to you!
Quick Tiles, a fully featured live tile editor for Windows Phone.
Great sports app for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL. Pin scores/games to live tile on your home screen.
Local 1777 Ringtones , Zedge , Record and Save Ringtone ,Secret Voice Recorder and 7 Different Piano and Xylophone..Try Now..
MobileFax gives you the opportunity to send fax pages from your mobile phone anytime, anywhere !
Wheel of Wealth is a multiplayer turn based game based on the hit TV show Wheel of Fortune.
Embark on an adventure to locate the long lost Golden Chalice!
Enjoy a better WP7 experience with better & simpler apps
The most engaging weather experience with gorgeous live animations, simple intuitive Metro UI, live tiles, detailed weather data and much much more.
Promote your app on WMPoweruser.com
Facebook
Twitter
RSS
Youtube
GooglePlus