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The deluxe, gold-plated HTC One (pictures)

Think your all-aluminum HTC One smartphone is really posh? Think again. HTC's 24-karat gold-plated version of the One takes exclusivity to new heights. The company made only two of these special handsets, which would cost $2,500 apiece if they were ever sold to mere mortals.

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 9 Sarah Tew/CNET

Lovely design meets luxury metal

No that's not a fancy paint job or case covering the HTC One smartphone you see before you. This HTC One is in fact one of two handsets in the US that sports real 24-karat-gold plating. Both devices will be awarded to lucky contest winners on Christmas and New Year's Day.
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2 of 9 Sarah Tew/CNET

A glitter that's all golden

Instead of the typical silver aluminum HTC One, the unibody chassis of this One sparkles with the iridescence of 24-karat-gold plating.
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3 of 9 Sarah Tew/CNET

Golden but just skin deep

Aside from its pricey gold plating, the 24-karat version of the HTC One is identical to more-pedestrian flavors of the smartphone you'll find in the US.
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Speakers with a touch of flash

The 24-karat HTC One's two BoomSound speakers have a bit of extra sparkle.
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Chat like a high roller

Nothing says you're well-heeled quite like speaking through a gold-plated smartphone.
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Polished and shiny edges

The 24-karat-gold HTC One sports the same polished edges, just with more luster.
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HTC Sense UI, opulent package

Sheathed in a 24-karat golden chassis, the HTC Sense UI takes on a whole new level of lavishness (or gaudiness, depending on your tastes).
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Svelte yet sumptuous

Even plated in precious 24-karat gold, the HTC One still keeps its sleek profile.
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Ritzy curves

One of the best aspects of the more-down-to-earth HTC One is how great its curved back feels in your hand. The 24-karat model thankfully features the same comfy design.

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