HTC Flyer Review

Introduction:

Strangely, some might be scratching their heads wondering as to why in the world HTC decided to launch their very first tablet, the HTC Flyer, knowing that it’s going to be flaunting Gingerbread as opposed to the tablet-optimized experience of Honeycomb? Being aware that HTC is renowned throughout the world as a top notch smartphone maker, you really can’t doubt their decision just yet, because time after time, we’ve seen them being able to churn out devices that provide an unparalleled customized experience – thus, making you forget what’s supposed to be taking precedence over others. Granted that this Wi-Fi only tablet is sporting a $500 price tag, it might initially turn off some people, but its unique offerings on the software and hardware side just might justify the hefty premium for this 7-inch Gingerbread flavored tablet. Without further hesitation, let’s find out if the HTC Flyer can grow a pair of wings and fly above some of its Honeycomb inspired brethren.

The package contains:

• HTC Flyer
• microUSB cable
• Wall Charger
• Quick Start Guide

Design:

Can you say WOW? The HTC Flyer is arguably the best looking and solidly built 7-inch tablet we’ve been able to check out thus far; mainly because of its unibody aluminum construction. In fact, its design philosophy is undeniably reminiscent to some of HTC’s smartphones – like the Desire HD and Inspire 4G. Its white plastic accents on the back splashes a little bit of character to an already gorgeous looking tablet, but doesn’t take precedence over its brushed aluminum casing – though, it does contribute to its slightly heavier weight (14.8 oz). Regardless of that, it’s sleek (0.52” thick) enough to hold comfortably with one hand thanks to its contoured edges and moderately raised bezel. All in all, the Flyer’s profound industrial design goes to show the kind of engineering talent behind HTC’s camp.



Continuing to drool over its charming looks, we’re mesmerized even further thanks to its equally iridescent looking 7” LCD display, which boasts a reasonable resolution of 1,024 x 600 pixels. Compared to the crop of existing Android tablets on the market, it’s crystal clear that the Flyer employs one of the best-looking displays thus far out of the bunch. Its resolution dishes up some fine and sharp looking visuals, but when you factor in its delectable color production, you’ll comprehend why it’s so darn good looking. Moreover, its visibility doesn’t sway thanks partly to its great viewing angles and high brightness output – making outdoor usage more than tolerable without the need of shading.


Two sets of Android capacitive buttons are built into the bottom and right edges of the tablet, while the buttons used to work with the tablet’s Magic Pen stylus are positioned further to the right, and away from the usual bunch. Meanwhile, we find the 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera, light, and proximity sensors all built into the top bezel.


Along the left edge, the 3.5mm headset jack is placed alongside the dedicated power button, which is rather flush in appearance, but exhibits an acceptable response when pressed. Oppositely on the right side of the tablet, the microUSB port is positioned squarely in the middle offering power and data connectivity, though, it can also provide a mirrored experience on the big screen if you happen to have an MHL adapter – much like what’s offered with the Samsung Infuse 4G. Meanwhile, the tablet’s two microphones and volume rocker are lined together along the top edge. And much like the dedicated power button, the volume rocker is flat and almost flush, but offers the same decent feel.


Turning it around, its 5-megapixel auto-focus camera is outlined with a trim chrome bezel, however, it’s missing an LED flash to really it make it coveted. Still, there are two speaker grills found on the back as well to offer some sort of stereo audio. Interestingly enough, you can remove the top plastic panel, which is notoriously difficult to take off, so that you can gain access to its microSD card slot.