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HTC doesn’t plan on announcing a new Android-based tablet for the United States anytime soon, according to statements directly from the Taiwanese company.
Calling its previous efforts (HTC Flyer, Evo View 4G, and HTC Jetstream) its “first foray”, HTC indicates it was pleased with results. In a written statement provided to CNET, Jeff Gordon, HTC’s global online communications manager, suggests that the company has not completely ruled out a return to market.
HTC is pleased with the results of our first foray into tablets — the HTC Flyer, EVO View 4G, and HTC Jetstream — and like any products in the mobile space that were release some time ago, our tablets have run through their planned lifecycles. We’re continuing to watch the tablet market very, very closely for the right opportunity to re-enter in a way in which we’re not just offering a “me too” tablet, but a product that’s compelling, differentiated, and inspiring to our customers.
Considering there are so few form factors for tablets, I don’t imagine HTC will worry too much about internal hardware. As is the case with its smartphones, HTC will likely concentrate on user delight with custom software touches. To their credit, the Flyer/Evo View 4G had unique features with the Scribe digital stylus technology, though it was not as well received as the Galaxy Note S Pen.
HTC will certainly want to focus on pricing as consumers become more attracted to $200 devices like the Kindle Fire HD and Nexus 7. As we’re learning, many buyers are willing to go with a tablet “lite” experience, just so long as they can play games, check Facebook, and read e-mails. The trick will be finding a way for HTC to both differentiate and keep costs down.
