HTC Touch Diamond 2

Editor's Review of the Touch Diamond 2

Coming from the same collection as the HTC Touch Diamond, the HTC Touch Diamond 2 is an upgraded version that weighs 117.5 grams and has the full dimensions of 107.9 x 53.1 x 13.7 millimetres. It is clad in a sophisticated compact casing that is highlighted by an 81.28 millimetre display WVGA LCD screen. It features the TouchFLO 3D control that allows a trouble-free 3D navigation experience. The wide external screen displays images in 65,000 sharp and crisp colours over a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. Giving the handset a more distinguishing appeal is its support for various polyphonic and MP3 ringtones.

Working on quadband network, the HTC Touch Diamond 2 covers GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900, as well as HSDPA 900 and 2100. The mobile phone's wide coverage makes it an ideal companion for frequently traveling users; however, its signal reach is ultimately determined by its network provider. The handset is powered by Qualcomm processor and is equipped with Windows Mobile version 6.1 Professional operating system. Users can expect the 3G Smartphone to be a multi-tasking handset with its HSDPA support.

In addition, the mobile phone allows users to explore the World Wide Web through its onboard Internet browser. It works on Wi-Fi technology to enable users on the move to get connected online at certain hotspots. Transferring and sharing files and data with compatible gadgets such as printers, laptops or personal computers is also easy using the mini USB and wireless Bluetooth technologies that the handset supports. Powered by GPRS and EDGE systems, the handset guarantees faster downloading rates and speedier Internet connectivity.

The HTC Touch Diamond 2 offers users the standard SMS and MMS services. Owing to the Internet connectivity it offers, the handset allows users to access their email with message attachments. Chatting onboard the mobile phone is also possible using the Instant Messaging service that it supports.

The mobile phone can also pass for a reliable virtual assistant. It comes with a set of organiser tools that include a phone book that stores numerous contact details, a calendar for scheduling purposes, an alarm clock to remind busy users of their important schedules, as well as a document viewer that supports widely accepted file formats such as MSWord, MSExcel, MSPowerpoint and PDF. The handset also comes with a speaker phone for hands-free calls. As bonus features, it supports handwriting recognition and is pre-fixed with AGPS navigation technology that works like a direction guide for users in various areas.

While it impresses as an entirely business-focused handset, the HTC Touch Diamond 2 does not compromise entertainment. It pleases photo enthusiasts with an integrated 5-Megapixel camera complete with autofocus that ensures precise picture outputs. Besides being a portable picture-snapping device, the onboard camera also allows recording of moving footages, and acts as a video player that supports MPEG4, ASF, WMV, 3GP and AVI formats. Users may store their photos and videos in separate albums that have been pre-installed in the handset. The mobile phone also comes with a second VGA CMOS camera for 3G video calls.

Moreover, the mobile phone addresses music hobbyists' need with its integrated music player that supports AAC, eAAC+, AAC+, AMP, MP3, QCP, WMA, MIDI and WAV. It also has FM radio support to allow users to listen to their favourite radio stations. Users will also be able to enjoy the games that have been pre-installed in the HTC Touch Diamond 2. It also supports games that have been downloaded from the Internet.

The mobile phone stores messages, contacts, photos and videos in its 512-Megabyte Read Only Memory, and 288-Megabyte Random Access Memory. These storage capacities can be expanded using a microSD memory card. Users will enjoy using the handset for 5.6 hours of talk time. With a fully charged battery, the handset is capable of staying on standby mode for 360 hours.

The HTC Touch Diamond 2 has disappointed some users with its Windows-based user interface that tends to freeze and offers a sluggish response when used. Satisfied users, on the other hand, have applauded the handset for its flashy features that suit business- and entertainment-oriented users and add more appeal to its already attractive external look.