HTC \"Ocean\" with Sense 9, touch-sensitive frame to arrive in May

Taiwan-based smartphone maker, HTC is allegedly working to bring a third smartphone in the HTC “U” series by the next month.

The smartphone in the line-up is speculated to be the HTC “Ocean” that was earlier mentioned in reports. The handset was tipped to come with a touch-sensitive frame and HTC’s new interface, Sense 9.

In January, HTC launched two smartphone, HTC U Ultra and HTC U Play, under its flagship series called “U.” However, the firm hold off the launch of “Ocean” smartphone. It was speculated that HTC wanted to power the “Ocean” phone with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835, and since Samsung bid on SD835 production until the Samsung Galaxy S8 is announced, HTC had to delay the device’s launch. The smartphone is now tipped to be called HTC U.

Based on the codename “Ocean,” the new arrival could feature a 5.5-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) display

Like the two previously released models, the HTC U could also come with 4GB RAM, offering 64GB/128GB of internal storage option. The internal memory can further be expanded up to 2TB via a microSD card. In terms of camera, it may also sport a 12MP rear camera with Sony IMX362 and a 16MP IMX351 front camera. Unfortunately, HTC ditched the headphone jack in the “U”, based on which the upcoming model is unlikely to feature a headphone jack.

Additionally, the phone is also believed to house with artificial intelligence called HTC Sense Companion, which will help enhance smartphone’s performance learning from customers’ usage.

HTC says the Sense Companion will help users save battery life by reminding them to charge the phone during the day when it spots a busy calendar, while also suggesting extra clothing and leaving more time to travel if bad weather is forecast.

Although HTC U is said to launch in mid-April, it will hit the stores only in early May.