HTC Debuts World's First WiMAX-GSM Phone in Russia

Taipei, Nov. 14, 2008 (CENS)--The Taiwan-based High Tech Computer Corp. (HTC), a world-caliber developer of smartphones, and Russian telecom service provider Yota have jointly unveiled the world's first WiMAX (worldwide interoperability for microwave access) phone, HTC MAX 4G, which is scheduled to be officially launched at the end of November in Russia, according to HTC.

HTC MAX 4G is a dual-mode phone for both WiMAX communications and GSM (global system for mobile communications). The phone adopts a 3.8-inch screen and features GPS (global positioning system) function, a built-in camera, WiFi wireless network, 8G memory capacity and Bluetooth.

Noteworthy is that HTC Max 4G can automatically link to Yota's Mobile WiMAX network to allow users to communicate with each other via VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) telephony instead of GSM network, as long as they use Yota's telecom services. In other words, the function helps them to save communication fees.

Peter Chou, CEO of HTC, noted that his company now focuses business operations in the Russian market, and has cooperated closely with Russia's first operator on WiMAX network services, Yota, since early this year. He added that the phone is fruits of collective efforts between the two sides.

To enhance marketability of the phone in Russia, Yota is going to provide application services, like games, electronic maps and data transmission, and Internet TV service for users of the phone.

However, industry insiders question popularity of the phone in Russia, partly because WiMAX coverage in the country is still low, and partly because unit price of the phone exceeds NT$34,000. But, in addition to Russia, HTC is also planning to launch HTC Max 4G in Australia by the end of this year as test markets for the phone.