HTC debuts Android Aria, on Optus

Stuart Corner
Tuesday, 28 September 2010 14:54

Your IT - Mobility

HTC has unveiled its latest Android phone, the Aria, exclusive to Optus.

The devices, running Android 2.1 will be exclusive to Optus for three months from its introduction in mid October. It will be offered at $0 upfront on a $49 per month 24 month plan.

The Aria offers little new in its user-interface from existing HTC Android devices, rather HTC says the innovation is in the form factor. "It is the same features and functionality that you have experienced before, but in a new form factor, 'said Anthony Petts, HTC's ANZ sales and marketing director. 'HTC Aria's seamless wrap-around back cover eliminates sharp edges, making HTC Aria exceptionally enjoyable to carry.

The Aria is HTC's smallest Android device to date: just over 10 cm long and weighing a 115g (battery included).  HTC was keen to point out that it looks just as good inside as out: take the back off and everything, including the battery is colour co-ordinated orange.

Optus' head of digital products,  Mark Mulder said: "Over the last few months over 50 percent of our postpaid customer base now have smartphones. However 10-15 percent of these are driving over 70 percent of usage and the rest are using them pretty much as normal phones."