Shop for HTC U Play
See all pricesThe HTC U Play is the smaller than the new HTC U Ultra, but we wouldn't call it the runt. It's meant to be a more affordable version of HTC's new line of phones that use AI, or artificial intelligence, software to try giving you a more streamlined experience.
We didn't get enough time to set up the phone and see how well its AI works, but we do know that this glass phone -- which comes in shimmering white, pink, blue and black -- is the less expensive, more midrange alternative to the flagship U Ultra. For example, although its 16-megapixel camera sounds heftier than the U Ultra's 12-megapixel "Ultrapbixel" shooter, HTC says that the Ultra's camera will take the crisper photos of the two.
The U Play lacks the Ultra's 2-inch strip of screen to display alerts, but it does have the same AI software running on top of Android 7.0.
Preorders began in select markets on January 12 for £399, which converts to $494 and AU$655.
Hardware specs
- 5.2-inch screen (1,920x1,080 pixels)
- 2-inch notifications screen (swipable)
- 16-megapixel front and rear cameras
- Octa-core MediaTek Helio P10 processor
- 32GB and 64GB options (3/4GB RAM)
- Up to 2T microSD card
- 2,500mAh battery
- Fingerprint sensor with NFC
- Dual-SIM optional
- Colors: Ice white, sapphire blue, cosmetic pink, brilliant black
Discuss: HTC U Play wants to bring you AI for less (hands-on)
Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. We delete comments that violate our policy, which we encourage you to read. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion.