Momma Told Me: #HTC8 Windows Phone: A Few of My Favorite Things #Troop8x

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#HTC8 Windows Phone: A Few of My Favorite Things #Troop8x

smartphone
Momma Told Me: You don't know until you live without them.

I'll admit it, I'm technologically obsessed, linked in and logged on every waking hour. While I grew up during the beginning of this mobile technology explosion, and still recall what a 'briefcase phone' looks like, I've become spoiled. Ironically, I'd estimate less than 10% of my interactions with my cellular device are related to direct communication via an actual phone call, or text message. If you'd have accused me of this a few years back, being tethered to an electronic device, I would have scoffed with offense. Now, it's something I've come to embrace. So long as my electronic devices don't prevent me from unplugging and connecting with the real world (aka, my family), I am fine with being labeled a techie/geek/nerd.I feel the electronics and technology I choose to align myself with is a clear expression of who I am, and a key to my success in nearly every daily activity. How can something as ordinary as a phone keep my life on course? Read on and find out just how my #HTC8 Windows Phone does just that!
#HTC8
I've been an Android user, mainly because the other half was, since it's mobile existence. My first smartphone was an Android, and it's hard to argue with a brand that has a cute little green robot as a mascot. However, working in digital media, I often find circumstance where I need to operate with Apple (iPad) devices for App reviews or software features. Though, the logical thing, for me, has always been to carry a 'smartphone' that is compatible with my processes on my Windows PC laptop. After all, what's the point of having a 1.5GHz, Dual-Core, processor if I can't seamlessly transfer and manage data between my home computing and on-the go devices? I knew the 8x, by HTC, was going to be my new best friend, ready to explore right out of the box. Using my Windows live ID I could seamlessly connect all of my social media accounts and back up any personal data to the Cloud. This means I can access my images and files on the go with the phone's integrated WiFi or 4G compatibility. And, did I mention how fast my new phone is?
HTC 8x
Shortly after I received my new phone there was a small hiccup; an extremely rare glitch that shutdown my device, pending in warranty HTC repairs. There was a little bit of panic, as I switched back to my old LG handset in the interim. I had become so used to the lightweight, slender, and even sexy HTC handset, with the beautifully lit 4.3" Gorilla Glass screen, and Widescreen forward facing camera. Sure, I was happy with my old phone before, but now, I couldn't imagine going back! The difference between the two interfaces was dramatic. Where as I had been able to streamline all of my favorite apps, images, and even recipes, onto my Live Tiles home screen, with the 8x, my Android phone now seemed stiff and limited; almost, even, outdated. I yearned for the fast processor and 4G connection of my new baby, and the feel of the soft rubberized exterior gently weighted in my hand. It was as though I had traded my new flat-screen plasma in for an old tube television; everything moved slower, and nothing was as 'shiny' as it had been on the HTC.
Windows Apps
When I was at last reunited with the #HTC8, I quickly began resetting my apps, and personalizing my home screen. Many of my images were easily pulled from the Cloud, thanks to my Windows ID account, though there were some Apps I was forced to download again. A unique Windows mobile APP I had found especially fun is called Munzee, similar to geocaching, for those familiar. Munzee is entirely free and offers a unique way to kill down time and explore while out and about with one's HTC phone. Simply lock on to your current position and select a nearby 'Munzee' marker. Using Google Earth, powered by Bing, you'll be given a clear visual guide to the designated location, as well as written tips left by previous visitors. The point? At each user designated location is a digital barcode to be found and scanned, or 'collected'. Move up in the rankings alongside your friends, or check your nationwide rank against other Munzee hunters. With the lightening fast speed of my T-Mobile 4G (prepaid) network, and the beautiful widescreen HD display, this is one app that executes flawlessly with the HTC 8x.
Though the 8MP main camera may not blow anyone's socks off in comparison to comparable smartphone devices, the auto adjust features, and photo editing software is extremely intuitive. In addition to the ability to take rapid fire images, this devices BSI sensor works especially well in low lighting for great images without a bothersome flash (though there is a flash option). The above image was sized down to fit this blog post, and taken without editing, just prior to this post. It's not the sharpest image I've captured with my HTC 8x, but it's a wonderful example of low life capture with a moving target! This bad boy also records MP4 files in 1080p, with a widescreen 2.1MP front facing camera, perfect for controlled images that don't leave me out of the shot!
One of the especially nice features of my new phone is the inclusion of Beats Audio precision sound, which truly brings my favorite tracks to life with it's dedicated amp. I've never heard such crisp vocals, and true surround from a mobile device! To make things even better, Spotify is offering a one month Premium trial for first time mobile customers (through their website), this month. That means I can make and play playlists from an almost limitless library of the hottest tracks. Just another reason my new HTC phone never leaves my side; thank goodness for built in battery management and extended talk time. This HTC powerhouse can easily handle my leisure media streaming, and on-the-go workload, as well as keep me up to date on Social Network news. All of these things, and so much more, are just part of what makes the new HTC 8x just one of my Favorite Things. Which feature would you enjoy most in the new #HTC8?

What Daughter Says: The HTC 8x has simplified my mobile life, and broadened my horizons.








Content and/or other value provided by our partner, HTC.
Disclaimer: I received an HTC 8x handset and service as part of the #Troop8x program. Regardless all opinions within are 100% mine, and mine alone.

30 comments:

  1. this looks like such an awesome phone i have been debating on whether to switch from my iphone to it

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  2. This looks like such an awesome phone!!! Love it!

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  3. This sounds like an amazing device. I really need a better mobile on the go option and this might just be it.

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  4. I just got my first smart phone a month or so ago. It's an Android and before that I had one of the general phones from LG with all your basics. I loved that phone and kept it long after I was able to renew because I didn't want to leave it. But now I love this phone and I am glad I switched. I might try your phone next. That Live Tile thing seems really cool and I am intrigued by the Gorilla Glass, lol.

    Dawn

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  5. Love the honesty - it does look like a good phone

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  6. I am TOTALLY with you on having my phone with me at all times, are rarely to make a call. I text a lot but also love it for all the various apps. Evzdrop, Wordle, Shazam, Netflix are just a few of my go-to everyday apps! Enjoy the new phone. - Katy

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  7. Really appreciate reviews like this since i am contemplating my first smart phone purchase.

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  8. I remember trying to convert my friend to touchscreen. She said she would hate it.......it only took about two seconds for her love it, lol! I love how the smartphones just keep getting.....smarter and smarter!

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  9. Looks like you are having a blast with that new phone.

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  10. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  11. I love how the screen is big so you can actually see what your looking at when your taking pictures! I'll have to look into this phone in the near future!

    sweets6@yahoo.com

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  12. I'm so impressed by this phone. I've been wanting one with a better camera, and this post is pretty convincing.

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  13. Leonard Cohen. Nice. :) Also, that looks like a nice phone it has the same setup as my new Windows 8 computer, and our xbox360. Should be very easy to use!

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  14. I totally love your review! Makes me want to get one!

    Jadey

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  15. I love your HTC posts. I too am an "HTC girl" and totally in love with the phones! Great post!

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  16. I'm so behind the times. I definitely need info like this. Thanks for sharing!

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  17. I just got this phone, and I love it. The squares for the apps on the phone are the best!I love how easy it is to put my work from my PC to my phone too.

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  18. I am so torn - I love all the new technology that is coming out but I feel so loyal to my iPhone.

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  19. i love the layout of the phone and easy photo editing options!

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  20. This is the phone im upgrading to and i cant wait i love how big everything appears on the screen

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