HTC Windows Phone 8X: First look

HTC's flagship Windows Phone isn't launching in Australia until later this month, but thanks to online store [[xref:http://www.mobicity.com.au/htc-8x.html|MobiCity]], we've managed to get our hands on an early review unit. Let's take a first look at the HTC Windows Phone 8X!

The HTC Windows Phone 8X's retail packaging. Do note that our review unit is an imported model from the UK, so the final Australian retail packaging may be different.
The back of the box runs through all the specs of the 8X. The UK model is a 3G-only device, but Australian models sold through Telstra will work on the 1800MHz 4G network.
Unboxing the Windows Phone 8X.
The HTC Windows Phone 8X in our hands. The first thing you'll notice is how well it curves into your hands. The build quality immediately feels excellent.
The sides are tapered inwards, so although the specs sheet says the 8X is 10.1mm thick, it feels thinner than that when you pick it up.
Our review model is a "California Blue" colour, though it looks more purple than blue. HTC will also sell the 8X in Graphite Black, Flame Red and Limelight Yellow colour variants and each model will have a matching Windows Phone 8 interface theme to suit.
We like how the speaker grill above the screen gets the colour treatment.
Below the screen are the standard Windows Phone 8 interface buttons: back, home and search.
The Windows Phone 8X includes the Beats Audio sound profile that works in all applications. However, it only activates when you plug in a set of headphones, so it won't work through the rear speaker.
The Windows Phone 8X has a very distinctive shape, with sharp corners. Here's the top right corner showing the micro-SIM slot (accessible with an included SIM removal tool) and the volume buttons.
The top of the Windows Phone 8X has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack and a power/lock screen button.
The bottom houses a standard micro-USB port for charging.
As you can see, the design of the Windows Phone 8X is very distinctive.
Turning it on for the first time.
The phone runs you through the Windows Phone 8 setup process. It's pretty straightforward and only takes a few minutes.
Windows Phone 8 seamlessly handles backups.
Here's the Windows Phone 8 homescreen. Notice the "California Blue" theme, which directly matches the colour of the phone. It's definitely a nice touch.
Some HTC specific features include the ability to quieten the ringtone when you pick up the phone, increase the volume of the ringtone when the phone is in your pocket or bag, or flip the phone over on a desk or table to mute an incoming call.
Here's the dialler.
The PC World homepage on the Windows Phone 8X.
A close up. The screen is vibrant and clear and displays very crisp text.
You can open new tabs in the Internet Explorer browser by tapping the options button.
Re-sizing widgets on the Windows Phone 8X. Here's a medium sized tile.
A small sized tile.
And a large one.

We'll have a full review of the HTC Windows Phone 8X in the coming days, so keep your eyes peeled!

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