Dual-SIM HTC One with microSD slot coming to the UK

Available now for pre-order, priced 494.99

HTC has announced that it'll bring a dual-SIM version of its flagship HTC One handset to the UK. The dual-SIM HTC One will also feature a removable back panel, like the HTC One Max, and expandable storage via a microSD slot supporting up to 64GB cards. Dual-SIM devices allow users to stay connected through multiple numbers at the same time, and HTC says it's targeting this specific model at "foreign nationals and students studying in the UK and business users who regularly travel abroad." A similar dual-SIM device has been available in China since April.

Aside from the extra SIM slot and microSD support, we're looking at the essentially the same device that's been on sale since the spring, with a Snapdragon 600 processor, 2GB of RAM, a 4-megapixel "Ultrapixel" camera and a 1080p SuperLCD display. It's worth noting however that the spec sheet makes no mention of LTE, meaning you'll max out at 3G data speeds on this device, with the first SIM slot supporting quad-band HSPA.

The handset is available for pre-order now, priced at 494.99; HTC says it's in talks with retailers and carriers to offer the dual-SIM HTC One to consumers and businesses.

More: HTC

Press Release

HTC BRINGS STYLE AND FUNCTION TO DUAL SIM MARKET WITH NEW HTC ONE DUAL SIM

- Handset offers ease of use and flexibility for foreign nationals, students and business users
- Enhancement on T3s gadget of the year with expandable storage through microSD slot

London, November 28th, 2013 HTC, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, is to start selling its HTC One with a dual SIM option in the UK for the first time.

The HTC One dual SIM has a removable back casing so customers can insert two different SIM cards, meaning they can use a single phone to run on two different phone numbers or networks simultaneously. The handset has also been enhanced so users can take advantage of a microSD slot, enabling them to add up to 64GB of additional storage.

The launch marks the first time HTC has released a dual SIM version of its top-end smartphone in the UK.

The HTC One dual SIM offers a one phone solution to those who would previously have used two phones operating on networks in different countries. HTC has launched the phone to particularly target foreign nationals and students studying in the UK and business users who regularly travel abroad.

The handset will suit those who make international calls home, or for work either while travelling or because they are seconded or studying overseas. The handset enables customers to have a local-network SIM card for in-country calls and data, while they use an international SIM when travelling or living away from home, delivering potential cost savings to businesses and consumers alike.

The HTC One dual SIM will also appeal to those who want to be able to separate their work from their personal lives, but dont want to have to carry two handsets often a premium smartphone for personal use and a lower-end product for work calls and email.

Peter Frolund, HTCs General Manager UK said: HTC is changing the premium mobile market for international users. This is the first time we have released a dual SIM version of one of our premium handsets in the UK which means that users no longer have to compromise on the quality of their phone to avoid costly international calls or separate their work and personal life. Were creating a new approach and one that we believe will appeal to business users, foreign nationals and international students alike.

The HTC One dual SIM features high-quality audio for media and a clarity of sound that is perfect for video or conference calling with HTC BoomSound and dual-frontal speakers. It also features leading camera functionality with HTC UltraPixel technology and a robust aluminium uni-body which handles the most challenging conditions comfortably. A big battery, power saving mode and the familiar design aesthetic are all reasons why the HTC One has become the most-awarded handset in the UK this year.

The addition of a microSD slot has been designed to appeal to travellers who want to carry more personal entertainment content while on the road, capture images and video of the places theyre going or need to carry a large numbers of files for work.

For the user that wants to work on the go, the HTC One dual SIM also offers HTC Sense-enabled productivity including built-in support for Microsoft Exchange and Office and provisions for other Microsoft applications including Office 365 and Lync. It also supports enterprise-grade features including on-board encryption, secure connectivity, secure password polices, remote data wiping and flexible Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions.

Peter Frolund concludes: With HTC One dual SIM, users who are regularly calling to or from other countries can get the handset they want without having to choose between paying for costly international calls or spending money on two handsets. Users will seamlessly be able to switch between their personal and work phone which means they can carry one phone and wont have to constantly switch SIMs or pay unnecessarily for costly international calls.

The HTC One dual SIM is available now for pre-order via the Official HTC Store (www.officialhtcstore.com ). HTC is in advanced talks with a number of networks and retailers to offer the handset direct to consumer and business customers.

Via: Dual-SIM HTC One with microSD slot coming to the UK