While browsing the mobile market, I observed a sub-category that has significant influence on a buyer’s purchase decision: the looks of the device. Impractical as it may sound, some people actually buy phones based chiefly on looks. The HTC Desire V is one such model, which, while being an attractive mobile, also has a decent set of features. Though, some might argue that the features don’t match up to the high price tag (about Rs.22k). Hence I thought I must see the product a little more closely.

Processor

The HTC Desire V is powered by Cortex-A5 1 GHz processor which is best in its class among single core processors. For a handset that offers the Desire V’s config and its dual-sim, the Cortex-A5 with Adreno 200 for Graphics is just fine for quick response while navigating and multi-tasking. Still, I know many of you might expect a dual-core considering the high price tag.

Operating System

The HTC Desire V runs by Android Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0. with the HTC Sense 4.0 UI. Android ICS is a popular OS currently and not many know that it is also a key factor in keeping the price of the device competitive. And that is the first reason why some of us might find the price unjustified.

See also  Micromax Canvas Juice A177 with 3000 mAh battery listed for Rs. 8,490

Camera

Secondly, HTC Desire V doesn’t have a front camera so forget about video calls and Skypeing. If you’re happy just taking snaps and videos, then the 5 megapixel camera at the back should satisfy you. Else, look elsewhere.

HTC Desire V review

Screen

The quality of its 4in capacitive touch-screen can be described in a single word: Brilliant. This 16color WVGA, 480 x 800 Pixel screen is perhaps the second most impressive feature in this handset.

Connectivity

Being an Android phone you’d get the pre-installed Android browser and the set is 3G-enabled. For connectivity options you have WiFi, GPRS and Edge. The set includes Bluetooth and GPS support with A-GPS and Google Maps.

Entertainment/Multimedia

A pretty standard set of support features e.g. for music you have MP3, WAV, eAAC+ and Beats Audio for sound enhancement; for video you have support for MP4, WMV, 3GP, 3G2, AVI, H.263 and H.264.

Desire V dimensions - Is the price justified?

Storage

HTC Desire V has an internal memory of 4GB with 512MB RAM with a microSD slot for additional up to 32GB. Bundled with the handset you also get a Sandisk 8GB memory card.

Additional features

Include Proximity Sensor, Ambient Light Sensor, G-Sensor, Accelerometer and Compass.

See also  Idea Aurus Android smartphone with dual SIM support for Rs. 7200

Color

You have no options besides white, which honestly looks quite attractive on the candy-bar form factor of the Desire V.

Making phone calls

HTC Desire is not dual-active. But I am told the same model with a slightly different config is sold abroad on which you can make/receive calls simultaneously on both the SIMs.

Price

Rs. 21,999 with 1 year warranty. If you are not looking for a dual SIM option then do check out the Sony Xperia U or Xperia Sola.

By Rajeev Rana

Founder and Chief Editor - gogi.in