The HTC One (E8) smartphone is a phone that boasts much of the specs of the HTC M8; the main difference between the two however has to do with their external build and feel. While the M8 has a premium aluminum construction, the One (E8) ditches that in favor of colorful plastics. The phone's shape is also different in that it is a squarer, polycarbonate unibody design, which HTC says is designed for "the fashion-conscious."
Like the M8, the One (EG) has a quad core 2.5 GHz Snapdragon 801 CPU, 2 GB of RAM and a 2,600 mAh battery. It also has an excellent 5-inch 1920 x 1080 display.
The HTC One (E8) will launch in China for about $448, although prices in Western markets have not been released just yet.
Plastic-Sheathed Smartphones
The HTC One (E8) Comes in a Range of Colorful Plastic Exteriors
Trend Themes
1. Plastic-sheathed Smartphones - Opportunity for smartphone manufacturers to explore the use of colorful plastics in their design, targeting the fashion-conscious consumer market.
2. Squarer, Polycarbonate Unibody Design - Innovation opportunity for smartphone designers to create a new aesthetic with a polycarbonate unibody design that combines style and durability.
3. Budget-friendly Alternatives - Potential for smartphone companies to tap into the market for more affordable devices by offering plastic-sheathed smartphones at a lower price point.
Industry Implications
1. Smartphone Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity for smartphone manufacturers to create a range of plastic-sheathed smartphones with unique designs.
2. Fashion and Accessories - Opportunity for fashion brands to collaborate with smartphone manufacturers and create designer plastic-sheathed smartphones that cater to the fashion-conscious audience.
3. Consumer Electronics Retail - Potential for retailers to offer a variety of plastic-sheathed smartphones at different price points to cater to the budget-conscious consumer segment.