Last week rumors trickled in about one of my favorite phone OEMs HTC prepping an iPhone challenger. It seems all the hoopla was true. Today HTC unveiled a new phone called the HTC Touch. So lets get to the good stuff.

The HTC Touch is a Windows Mobile 6 smartphone. Its name derives from its 2.8″ touchscreen and what’s most interesting is the entire WinMo 6 interface has been custom designed to work with fingers but a stylus is still there for you old schoolers. It’s devoid of any buttons except a 4-way navigation pad, some soft keys and a couple of rocker switches on the side. Spec-wise it’s pretty matched up to the iPhone; 2 megapixel camera, WiFi and EDGE support. The main differences are the inclusion of microSD memory in lieu of built-in flash memory and the smattering of WinMo software enhancements like Office Mobile.

Pricing is unconfirmed but you can expect this challenger sometime in the second half of 2007. Hit the jump to see it in action. (more…)

Never saw this one coming so it’s nice to be surprised. HTC just revealed their official Windows Mobile 6 upgrade plans and guess what? They’re offering free upgrades to select HTC smartphones. Select meaning the HTC Advantage, HTC TyTn, HTC S620 (aka Dash), HTC P3300 and the HTC 4350.

So what’s the catch? There is none - no hidden fees or contracts. The only stipulation is that your “select” device be OEM and not carrier branded. Upgrades will start rolling out one by one this month with all 5 devices getting the upgrade by June. Check this link frequently to see when your appropriate upgrade will be available to download.

Isn’t it nice to get something for free?