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HTC S743 lands in US – Next generation hybrid keypad/keyboard handset arrives

By: , IntoMobile
Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 at 6:00 AM

Fans of HTC’s hybrid-messaging handsets like the HTC Libra will be glad to hear that HTC is updating their smartphone lineup with a US variant of the HTC S740, dubbed the HTC S743. With both a numeric keypad and slide-out QWERTY keyboard, the HTC S743 offers a Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard (no touchscreen here, folks) experience unlike anything else in HTC’s current Diamond-inspired lineup.

The HTC S743 has been announced for the US market and will support the 850Mhz and 1900Mhz 3G frequencies (allowing for HSDPA data speeds) used by AT&T in The States. The slide-out QWERTY keyboard makes text and email messaging a breeze, while the numeric keypad highlights the handset’s emphasis on making voice calls. And, even with a 2.4-inch QVGA display offering generous screen real-estate, the HTC S743 manages to keep things nice and svelte – an ergonomic 1.7-inches wide.

On the design side of things, HTC has infused the HTC S743 with Diamond-styling, bringing it aethestically in line with the manufacturer’s WinMo portfolio. Like the HTC Touch Diamond, the HTC S743 sports sleek lines, glossy-black finishes, and a high-end feel. But, with a slide-out keyboard, the S743 will appeal more to text-happy users with no need for a touchscreen.

Expect the HTC S743 to hit select retail channels in the US in the first quarter of 2009.

About The Author

Will Park

Will hails from The City of Angels - Los Angeles, California. He spends his time playing with his numerous gadgets and looking forward to seeing what future holds for mobile technology. An avid promoter of a fully "digital" life, he promotes the widespread adoption of truly mobile, paper-less living. He dreams of the day when he can go completely digital. No more snail mail, paper receipts, bound books, notepads/spiral notebooks, credit cards, hard currency. He's a digital warrior - fighting for the converged life. He is an idealist and a realist - he has a perfect view of what the world should be but knows that the world is not perfect. Can we ever hope to see Will's dream become reality? We'll see...