HTC Hero CDMA Specs Pricing & Full Review

Overview of HTC Hero CDMA

The HTC Hero CDMA, released in October 2009, is a significant device in the evolution of Android smartphones. Known for its iconic design and the introduction of HTC's Sense UI, the HTC Hero CDMA catered to the emerging demand for Android devices within the CDMA network niche. The Hero CDMA version came with several customized features designed to make the user experience more personalized and intuitive.

Design and Build Quality

Weighing in at 128 g and measuring 113 x 56 x 14 mm, the HTC Hero CDMA features a robust design with a silver body color, introduced to provide consumers with a visually appealing option. Despite its relatively small 3.2-inch screen representing a 48.2% screen-to-body ratio, the device was well-regarded for its ergonomic benefits, thanks to the distinctive 'chin' feature, which affords comfortable handling and operational ease.

Display

The 3.2-inch TFT display on the HTC Hero CDMA offers a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels, resulting in a modest pixel density of approximately 180 ppi. Although not groundbreaking by today's standards, this was adequate during its time, providing vibrant colors and sufficient clarity for everyday use.

Operating System and UI

The HTC Hero CDMA comes with Android 2.1 Eclair, integrated with HTC's Sense UI. This interface was noteworthy for introducing features such as customizable widgets, enhanced app integration, and a personalized notification system. Sense UI aimed to create a user-friendly experience by providing more control over how content is organized on the home screen.

Performance

Powered by a Qualcomm MSM7200A chipset and a 528 MHz ARM 11 CPU, the HTC Hero CDMA is further enhanced by an Adreno 130 GPU. The device's performance caters to the basic needs of its users, providing reliably smooth browsing and application functionality, although multitasking capabilities are limited by the 288MB RAM.

Memory and Storage

Storage capabilities are one of the core considerations for device performance. The HTC Hero CDMA offers an internal memory set at 288MB RAM, with 512MB of built-in storage. Users have the option to expand this using a dedicated microSD slot, ensuring increased flexibility for multimedia storage and application installations.

Camera

The HTC Hero CDMA is equipped with a 5 MP main camera, with autofocus capability. Unlike modern devices, it does not come with a selfie camera, which was not uncommon at the time of its release. The primary camera provides basic video recording functionality, catering to the users' needs for casual photography and video.

Audio and Connectivity

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, serving as a testament to the era's standard audio features. In terms of connectivity, the HTC Hero CDMA supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, and GPS with A-GPS. It also features a miniUSB 2.0 port for easy connection to other devices. However, it lacks radio, a decision that reflects the evolving multimedia consumption trends of time.

Network Capabilities

Designed to operate within CDMA networks, the HTC Hero CDMA features technologies such as CDMA / EVDO with available frequency bands of CDMA 800 / 1900. The device supports CDMA2000 1xEV-DO with a data speed capacity of EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps, ensuring decent connectivity and data transmission speeds for its users.

Battery Life

Integral to the functionality of any smartphone, battery life remains a focal point. The HTC Hero CDMA includes a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery, providing a stand-by time of up to 360 hours and a talk time of approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. This functionality ensures the device meets the daily communication needs of its users.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device is equipped with basic sensors like an accelerometer and compass, aiding in user interaction and application utility. It supports an HTML browser, fulfilling the web browsing requirements of its users. These features align with the expectations from smartphones during the late 2000s era, focusing on the essential aspects of interactivity and navigation.

Conclusion

The HTC Hero CDMA represents an important chapter in the transition towards sophisticated smartphones. While it comes with features that may seem modest today, it laid the foundation for subsequent advancements in Android technology. Its valued design, combined with the HTC Sense UI, offered a glimpse into the potential for highly personalized mobile experiences – a principle that continues to drive smartphone innovation.