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The slim and stunning HTC 8XT (pictures)

With a trim profile and striking blue hue, the $99.99 HTC 8XT is both a looker and Sprint's first Windows Phone 8 handset.

Brian Bennett
Brian Bennett is a former senior writer for the home and outdoor section at CNET.
Brian Bennett
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1 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

Live Tiles galore

Arranged around what Microsoft calls "Live Tiles," Windows Phone 8's UI consists of square-shaped app shortcuts. They wink and twinkle at you with photos and text pulled from their corresponding apps in real time.
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2 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

Controls that are almost too flush

The HTC 8XT's right side holds controls for volume and a key to fire up the camera. All are very thin and sit almost flush with the phone's edge, making them tricky to find without looking.
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3 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

This machine is two-tone blue

The HTC 8XT sports a striking two-tone blue color scheme that's especially noticeable from the back.
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4 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

A view from the top

Gazing at the HTC 8XT's top edge you can see the phone's headphone jack and power button.
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5 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

Power lives on the bottom

Plug USB cords into the Micro-USB port on the 8XT's bottom lip.
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6 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

A comfy grip

The rounded edges, compact size, and soft-touch backing help the 8XT to feel comfortable in the hand.
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7 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

Fuzzy camera controls

The camera controls on the HTC 8XT are basic and at times don't offer much detail.
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8 of 8 Sarah Tew/CNET

The camera close up

Here's a tight view of the HTC 8XT's 8-megapixel camera and LED flash. Unlike the HTC 8X, this phone has a fancy circular design element.

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