First Impressions: HTC One V

Released at the same time as the HTC One X, the One V felt under-appreciated. This phone is the entry-level Android 4.0 handset from the HTC One triumvirate launched this year.

If you’re familiar with HTC handsets, the One V got its design inspiration from the HTC Legend with its prominent chin for better handling and a more natural shape when taking calls. It’s sleeker and has the same quality finish found on other HTC devices.

Powered by the same Qualcomm 1GHz Scorpion processor as that of the HTC Desire S, the HTC One V uses the latest and gorgeous HTC Sense 4.0 UI although I encountered a bit of lag when loading content on some widgets. This phone is in the same category as the HTC Desire line performance-wise.

What I find interesting on the One V is that it uses the same camera lens (f2.0)and technology as the One X and One S but at a lower megapixel count (5mp). You’ll get a fast camera start and can take fast shots. Actually, there’s no half-press to focus here. The camera will focus by itself (or you can touch to focus), and as soon as you click the onscreen shutter button, it will immediately take the picture. It also has the same superb ImageSense software found on its more expensive sibling which greatly enhances photos taken indoors.

Here’s a sample shot taken during dinner using auto settings:

The light inside the restaurant wasn’t that bright but the camera got the right amount just for this shot. The auto white balance is also correct on this shot with the room having an incandescent lighting. Impressive for a phone in its class.

By the way, no front-facing camera on this phone so if video-chatting is your thing then you have to look somewhere else.

In a nutshell, the HTC One V won’t make you salivate with its power. What it does is give you a gorgeous Android handset with capable specs, a really good camera, and Beats Audio inside. If you’re in the market for a smartphone with a really good camera that won’t cost you a few month’s salary, look no further than the HTC One V which has an SRP of Php15,990 (you can get one for Php13,150 if you look hard).

Will post a detailed review of this phone soon.