Great Phone, Great OS November 29, 2012

Reviewer:  Dustin 

I am thoroughly impressed with the phone and the OS and had no issues switching to the Windows Phone. They have done an outstanding job helping to transfer information regardless of previous OS/preference.

The phone is clean, responsive and easily customized. Even more so than I imagined.

I was looking forward to moving to a Windows Phone, so I was expecting maybe a little bit of a let down once I actually obtained one, but I couldn't be happier.

The only downside to this phone is the limited storage and no ability to upgrade it. But with the skydrive sync it will just require a little closer management of media files.

Neither HTC nor AT&T add much software to the phone but Windows does enough.

AWESOME phone, but battery life is terrible. December 4, 2012

Reviewer:  AuntB6 

I'm not technically inclined and after reading countless reviews, I purchased my first smartphone and selected the HTC Windows 8x phone (T-mobile). Being a Hotmail user, the phone was super-easy to sync with my Hotmail contacts, Facebook, Twitter, etc. I'm not a listen-to-music-or-videos-on-my-phone kind of person, so the limited storage doesn't bother me. For what I want it to do (primarily texting and social media), the phone is simple to use, and after a week of use, I absolutely adore it!

The only thing I don't care for is the battery life. I'd read reviews that it wasn't good, but it is terrible. I'm a heavy texter and use social media throughout the day, but still....I'd expected a fully-charged battery to last longer than 12 hours, which is typically when I need to plug the phone says battery is critcally low and I need to charge it.

Otherwise, I'm very impressed with this phone and love it!!

light weight, thin, and a good camera December 12, 2012

Reviewer:  Haidong Huang 

Out of the box there is 8GB of memory, but only 5GB is available for the user. There are only English and Spanish language options. Too bad it does not have an option to install Chinese. The phone is thin, narrow, and extremely light weight. It feels good in the hand, and the back cover is soft matte material that feels very warm and comfortable to hold.

Nice phone for Business February 8, 2013

Reviewer:  cbejin 

HTC Window Phone 8X Review
By: Cliff Bejin

To start of this review of the HTC 8X, I'll list the pros, then the cons and finally my conclusion.
Pros:
* HD Display - the screen on the HTC 8X has to be the best I've seen on a phone so far. Text look crystal clear, and image and video like they are popping out the screen and into real life. It makes its very good for videos, movie, document and etc.
* Both Cameras - The 8.1 MP camera on the rear, just blow my HTC One S camera out the water. It's very clear indoor, outdoor at night and zoomed in. The images are nice and sharp, with good color accuracy and clarity. The night time shot are unbelievable and can compete with many entries level point-and-shoot stand-alone cameras on the market. The 2.0 MP webcam is also unbelievable, not only is it clear indoor, but you can use it outside at night, with very limited light. It just set the bar higher for webcams on phones, with its clarity and sharp, not to mention color accuracy for people skin complexion.
* Back Cover - I'm not sure what possess HTC to make the back for the 8X like they did, but I'm glad they did. It's like a brand new fleece blanket on the back of the device, so soft and warm. It doesn't even feel like plastic but fur, all I k now is that it is a plus.
* Design - the 8X look like modern art, it design is simply and straight to the point. It's curve so it fit in the hand and easy to use. Also it makes the phone quite the eye candy and conversation starter. When I talk on it in public, I notice a few people staring. He he!
* Audio enhancement by Beats - The audio enhancement on this phone is the best ever. It's loud and clear and noticeable, it really just boost your music and video enjoin when you actually hear the sound coming out your phone and have your mind blown doing so.
Cons
* The Corners - one problem I had when holding the phone to make calls is the corners. They're hard and a bit pointy, and tend to poke you in the palm if you try holding it from the bottom, you to grip it from the middle of it.
* The Buttons - they give pretty no tactile respond that you press, they move easily but you don't feel them move. You have to look at the screen to know if you actually did anything.
Conclusion
The HTC 8X is definitely a good phone, that a person should have no problem with owning and might feel pride in doing so. With Window Phone 8 OS, the HTC 8X is practically a business phone, with a heavy focus on productivity, thanks to app like Microsoft Office Mobile and Internet Explorer 10. That killer front-facing camera make it prefect for Skype and the fleece-soft, has a pretty good grip, so it doesn't slide out your hand easy. I personally think a business with this phone will do better than a business with the over-kill Samsung GS III or GN II.

Finally... a "sensual" phone! February 8, 2013

Reviewer:  Dario Pagani 

"The first thing that became clear in my mind when I first took the 8X in my hands was that this was not going to be a common user experience. The handset truly comes across as to be able to please all senses that come in contact with it. Touch it: rounded edges, seamless, supple, solid. Look at it: gorgeous unibody design, stunning screen that truly gives Windows 8 justice. Listen to it: I am a music lover and I could easily switch to this device as my main portable mp3 player.
Oh, the camera! Trust it, use it as often as you can... it will not disappoint you! Great battery life (vast improvement over my Evo 4G). Overall I tried really hard to find something to gripe about and all I can think of is the volume controls: they are so flush with the body that sometimes I have a hard time finding them! All in all I highly recommend the "sensual" 8X!"

Beautiful phone; sharp camera February 12, 2013

Reviewer:  jyu 

This is a review of just the HTC 8X itself, and less focused on Windows Phone 8 OS

HARDWARE
HTC really have outdone themselves on the design of the body. The curves on the plastic body and glass screen are beautiful. They are so well designed that the very first reaction that I get from people when they see my phone is "Wow! That phone is SO THIN!" when in reality it's actually a bit thicker in the middle than other phones. That's a statement in itself on how well the HTC design team nailed the radii of the edges to create that sliver-thin optical illusion.
Body feels solid, though not quite Nokia solid. Tiny gaps between glass and plastic body in my unit.. but doesn't give me worry.
Buttons: not good. The sleep/wake button is at the very top left corner of the phone, but the phone is quite long, so that means it's quite difficult to reach. The more annoying thing is how flush the buttons sit; you can barely discern where they are just by feel. The button travel is also really short, so you don't get a satisfying 'click' when you press them (which is an important feedback for phone users).
DISPLAY
Awesome. Very high ppi, so it goes toe to toe with iPhone's "retina display".
Only complaint is brightness sensing sometimes is a bit off. When in direct sunlight, it's a bit hard to read.

CAMERA
In a word, superb. Not joking when I say it's the best phone camera I've used so far
The optics and sensor are good, though lacking the fancy [mechanical] Optical Image Stabilization found in the Nokia Lumia 920. However, I believe in normal lighting conditions, the 8X beats the 920 in image quality by a lot. (check online reviews and comparisons) This is because the Nokia image processing, despite many updates, is still wonky (i'm a Lumia 900 owner). The images still end up hazy and have a strange blue tint. Not at all sharp and vivid colors like the HTC phones have.
Low light shooting is OK, but not the best. If you hold your hand steady enough (or stabilize on a surface), you can get some decent shots. However, the 920's low light is still beyond comparison.
The 8X's dedicated camera processor means it takes shots REALLY quickly and is ready for the next shot sooner than you.
Paired with the Windows Phone UI and shutter button, the camera is a really easily started. I find myself capturing that critical shot more often with this phone (much more often than my iPhone). Definitely eliminates the need for a point-and-shoot for me, and often saves me the trouble of bringing my DSLR on casual excursions (especially when hiking, skiing, etc).

FRONT-FACING CAMERA
The front facing camera has a wide-angle lens. This is a feature HTC added to try to differentiate themselves, and I think it's a good choice. The lens is indeed wider; useful for group shots with friends.. but the sensor needs some work (shots are all quite noisy...)
I'm glad to see HTC thinking outside of the box and adding useful and fitting upgrades.

AUDIO
HTC phones all have "Beats" audio now. so far as I can tell, it's just bass boosting. Sounds nice, but nothing an audio EQ couldn't replicate.. Would love to see some high quality audio drivers (think exteral headphone amp/DAC for your computer; audiophile equipment) on this phone if that's the path that they really want to go down and try to differentiate themselves with.

HTC APPS
HTC has some apps available for download, exclusive to the 8X (just like Nokia has a bunch just for their phones). HTC's apps really don't compare to Nokia's in terms of quality; Nokia has things like Nokia Drive+ and Maps and media player, where HTC has only bundled a pretty flashlight app and a clock live tile/weather app. Not even close to matching Nokia..
Thankfully, the best Nokia apps are made available for all WP8 devices (like Nokia Drive+ navigation)

CONCLUSION
I am a convert to Windows Phone and believer, and I really enjoy this device. This is most definitely a premium device. As more apps are added, the power of this phone will be better utilized. Get this phone if you are willing to give Windows Phone a try; you won't be disappointed. thanks for reading my rambles--

Excellent phone in Windows 8 Space May 18, 2013

Reviewer:  rpv  (CA) -

HTC 8X is definitely a incredible design and ergonomic. Windows 8 apps are a welcome change from iOS. Among the three ecosystems, I prefer Android, Windows 8, and iOS in that order. I got access to few Windows 8 phones to review. I will try to review them, but since I have not used for a period longer than a month I am not reviewing for reliability. 4.3" Super LCD 2, 720x1280 resolution, 342 ppi, Corning Gorilla Glass 2. Glass 2 is overlooked. Glass 3 is in the making and supposed to be even better. Stating following because this is highly underrated in reviews. From Corning's Gorilla Glass specs; WHAT MAKES GORILLA GLASS SO DAMAGE RESISTANT? The unique composition of Gorilla Glass allows for a deep layer of high compressive stress (created through an ion-exchange process). This compression acts as a sort of "armor," making the glass exceptionally tough and damage resistant. Ion exchange is a chemical strengthening process where large ions are "stuffed" into the glass surface, creating a state of compression. Gorilla Glass is specially designed to maximize this behavior.

1.5 GHz dual-core Qualcomm Krait processor, upto 16 GB internal flash (this model has 8 GB), 1 GB RAM NO microSD slot! Battery is 1800 mAh Li-ion battery. Compared to a high end Android Galaxy Note II, which has a battery of 3100 mAh Battery. Battery is also not removable. __Not having a storage expansion slot is a bummer for lot of people! Not being able to remove battery is a double bummer.__ 8 MP camera is awesome, and HD videos were fantastic. For me, storage expansion and removal of battery is very important, so I was disappointed. This is the downside the unibody design. This is the reason for me giving a 4 star review.

I have used in the past extensively HTC Titan I and II which is pre Windows 8 (7.5) and I was surprised it has become more buttery smooth now. Apps are very smooth on 8X even compared to Nokia Lumia series. Apps are limited in Windows 8 marketplace. Yes, we have heard this a gazillion times. I tried with Navigon which turned out to be great in giving voice directions.

Engadget wrote after the release: "Yes, the 8X is a fantastic ambassador to Windows Phone 8, but after using it for several days, we're longing for a similar phone from HTC running Android -- at least until a stronger app ecosystem develops for Microsoft's latest mobile OS" This is a chicken and egg situation. Unless more phones are sold, developers don't have incentives to write apps. Apps are less now, because people are not buying in big droves. Windows Phone is now (early-mid 2013) the third-leading mobile phone platform, more than tripling its market share year-over-year. One recent report I read Android and iOS are ahead in games with 162.1 and 37.4 million shipments in 1Q13 and Windows phone came in 7 million. This is more than double from previous year. I really hope for Windows 8 platform to surge ahead because having a 3 way competition with iOS and Android is good for the ecosystem.

Totally Awesome Integration Save Me Time May 10, 2013

Reviewer:  knillcl 

The best thing about Windows phone is the striving for total integration with email, contacts, social, xbox/games, and document syncing across different screens. WP8 saves me time by focusing on taking actions with one click. The one click to go back to where you just were, the one click Lync to enter a conference call, the one click to take a picture, the one click to listen to your voicemail and one click on an address or phone number in an email to get what you need all saves me time. I couldn't live without WP making my life so easy. In addition to the one click, I love the voice commands for no touch.

The HTC phone is so slim, goregous, light and makes the WP8 features slick. Live tiles look so alive with the screen definition quality and the abiliy to personalize the look and feel of the phone. As it is a V1 on WP8, there are a few things that were in WP7 that are not in WP8. Ex. maps don't have some features that WP7 had. HTC, Is there an update coming to fix this???

I can't wait to see what's coming next.

Glass shatters making viewing difficult May 7, 2013

Reviewer:  Teresa Dunne 

First phone fell less than 2 feet and the glass shattered after less than 2 weeks. Replaced with insurance through Verizon (can not do that again as they have a 2 phone replacement policy and her last phone was replaced by them). When the new phone came put on a case and screen protector to be sure to safeguard the phone. Two months later as my daughter was getting out of the car the phone fell on its back less than 6 inches(she was still seated in the car) landed on it's back, not the glass, but the glass shattered again. Now we are stuck with a phone with a shattered screen and no help from Verizon, HTC or Corning.

If you need window... May 1, 2013

Reviewer:  ernest coffman 

If you need windows or use window at work, this is the way to go. This is my second windows phone in 3 years. I will stay with this type of phone.

A Lovely Looking Phone February 20, 2013

Reviewer:  Momorocks 

The Windows 8X is a beautiful looking phone. I enjoy the different color options. The sleek design and slimness makes the 8X feel and look great in the palm of my hand. The screen is bright. This phone runs fast and works smoothly. I love the camera quality and the front wide angled lens is perfect for taking selfies! My only complaint about this phone is that there are a lack of apps (Instagram) which Windows Mobile is mostly to blame. Other then that I would recommend this phone to anybody. I think this is also a great "Mom phone" for a first time smart phone user!

Great Phone. February 17, 2013

Reviewer:  Joseph Williams 

I've used Samsung phones since Galaxy Vibrant and was more than ready to move from android to Windows.

I had migrated for 7 to 8 and thought the next logical thing was to have a Windows phone.

The phones' interface and live tiles make management of contacts, email, messaging and calls simple.

Having an OS and phone synced and all apps native makes for one less hassle.

nice phone February 13, 2013

Reviewer:  Alan F. Paredes "alzn"  (vallejo, ca) -

looks good. the blue color is sexy. works fine. fast. light even though it has a large screen. calls are good. bluetooth is good. wifi and 4G is good. beats audio helps the sound. The OS works nicely and is fast. photos come out nice. only thing i don't like too much so far is the power button on the top right that seems too hard to use. but the phone overall is recommended.

Great Phone February 8, 2013

Reviewer:  Shahroom  (San Jose, CA USA) -

This phone is a head turner!!! Everything is perfect, I love the quality of the screen and Front facing camera. I wish the power button was in the side instead of the top of the phone... But, it's not a big deal! I recommend this phone...

Great Phone to Customize January 23, 2013

Reviewer:  sph422 

If you like to customize your phone this phone and windows lets you do it. The windows store does not have as many applications as apple and android, but there are still alot available and more added everyday. The live tiles are great!

Make sure you read the Wireless discount policy First!!!! May 1, 2013

Reviewer:  Dawna L.  (Westford, MA) -

Instant Discount Policy

When you purchase your device with service from AmazonWireless.com, we automatically pass along an instant discount based on a commission paid to AmazonWireless by your wireless service carrier. The commission depends upon your continued service, and if you do not maintain your service for 181 days from the service activation date, AmazonWireless must return the commission to the carrier. Thus, this discount has been provided to you in good faith based on your agreement to (a) activate a new or extend an existing line of service for the device(s) with the carrier for two years, (b) maintain this line of service in good standing, and (c) not alter the line of service type other than adding an additional line of service to an individual account for at least 181 consecutive days.

The following are some scenarios where we may determine that you have not maintained your service and have not met the requirements listed above:

If your device with the carrier is not activated per Amazon's activation instructions within 14 days
If your service is canceled/disconnected before 181 days and you do not return the device(s) to Amazon
If a new individual or new family account is merged with or replaces a pre-existing account
If you transfer this equipment to another carrier's service or to another line in your family account and deactivate the line that Amazon established for your device

By accepting this Instant Discount Policy, you agree to repay $400 per smart phone or tablet and $200 per other device if you do not maintain your carrier service for 181 consecutive days from the service activation date. You also authorize us to collect that amount using any credit card we have on record for you. Amazon can periodically check your account status with the carrier to confirm your line of service is active and in good standing and thereby confirm you are in compliance with this policy.

The Instant Discount Policy will not be applied if you cancel your order and return the device(s) within our 30-day return period. You must return your device(s) to Amazon within the carrier's 14-day return period in order to avoid the carrier's Early Termination Fees (ETF). If your purchase was an upgrade, your upgrade eligibility will not be reset unless you return your device to Amazon within the carrier's 14-day return period.
Additional Terms

Amazon reserves the right to decide who is eligible to purchase a device from us (e.g., an individual may be deemed ineligible based on identify verification checks) and can limit purchase quantities or refuse to sell to an individual who has been approved by a carrier.

Devices with service purchased from Amazon are for individual use only, and Amazon reserves the right to reject orders from resellers or distributors.

These AmazonWireless Terms and Conditions are in addition to the AmazonWireless site Conditions of Use.

How can a smart phone be so dumb? April 24, 2013

Reviewer:  Ryan 

I got all excited about the new Windows Phone 8x by HTC. Started a new contract, got a couple different chargers and a headset. Unfortunately this phone is totally worthless. For whatever reason, you can't hear the people you're talking to, even with the volume all the way up. Navigating is a nightmare too. Touch one thing and another will open. While on the phone, it goes dark and no matter what you do, you can't bring the screen back (really annoying if you are using an automated service or if you want to hang up but can't because the other person hasn't) I had to cover the camera lens on the screen side because it likes to take random pictures of you when you're navigating apps (creepy)

When I think about referring this phone to my worst enemy, I actually feel a little bad. If it wasn't worth $850 (which I don't think it's worth 10 cents) I would smash it into little pieces.

Unable to receive calls... January 19, 2013

Reviewer:  Kalueb 

I ordered this phone for my wife for Christmas. We are both avid Windows Phone fans and I personally have owned most of the models that have launched for AT&T. This phone has so many nice features and the phone is beautiful. But it can't do the one primary thing that a phone is meant to do... Phone calls... I have troubleshot with AT&T, gotten the phone replaced by them, replaced the SIM, updated to the Portico update, gone through tier 2 tech support, and still the phone goes to a fast busy when 9 out of 10 calls go to it. After some research I found this is a problem with this particular model phone. However, since AT&T has already replaced it and that it is more than 30 days from point of purchase we are stuck with a useless phone. I can't return it, I can't exchange it, I can't trade it in. That's it. I was looking at a Nokia 820 for her and with the amazing experience I have with my current 920, THATs where I should've gone. You live you learn I guess. Unless HTC fixes this, buy at your own risk...

terrible problems with Windows 8 phone December 26, 2012

Reviewer:  Tara 

We gave my daughter this phone for Christmas, and she couldn't have been more excited. That was before every person in the household and five different Verizon employees tried to make it work. After over an hour on the phone and trying everything, even a factory re-set, the Verizon troubleshooter finally said there is no way to get this phone to work. It does make phone calls and send texts, but cannot get any downloads at all... so no apps, music, games, or many websites. The Verizon person gave us a MicroSoft number to call, but I don't have much faith that that will work. If it does not, it is back to the store to get an iPhone. I think many people are making that same decision today. Too bad....