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HTC has cancelled the launch of the Facebook Home-touting HTC First in the UK, network EE has confirmed.
The First, which was to be the first mobile to arrive running Facebook’s social-centric ‘Home’ interface, won’t be arriving on our shores after all, as Zuckerberg’s social network has chosen to take its new interface back to the drawing board.
In a statement, EE said, “Following customer feedback, Facebook has decided to focus on adding new customisation features to Facebook Home over the coming months.
“While they are working to make a better Facebook Home experience,” the 4G operator’s statement continues, “They have recommended holding off launching the HTC First in the UK.”
Facebook Home takes over an Android phone’s interface, giving updates and chat conversations centre stage. The software has been met with negative reviews since its launch however, with those downloading the mega-app bemoaning a lack of support for other widgets, among other issues.
Rumours suggest that the HTC First was originally slated to enjoy a period of Home exclusivity, during which it would be the only way for shoppers to get their mitts on the new software.
Zuckerberg and pals backtracked on that decision however, the Verge reports, making Facebook Home available for loads of different smart phones — a move that may have killed interest in HTC’s new mobile.
Cancelling the First’s launch plans signals that Facebook Home is not living up to expectations, but is more bad news for HTC, which has seen executives quit amid record-low profit.
Are you gutted we won’t be getting our mitts on the First? Or are you not fussed? Let me know in the comments, or on our Facebook wall.
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