Like many other Android mobile devices, the HTC EVO 4G features a microSD slot in addition to the built-in RAM which allows for user-expandable storage. The device supports microSD cards of sizes up to 32GB. With Android version 2.2+ (Froyo) available as an over-the-air upgrade, the OS supports applications which permit themselves to be installed on the SD card.
The Sprint HTC Evo 4G comes from the factory locked without any root privileges. Many advanced users choose to 'root' the device for additional benefits. Benefits from rooting are modifying/upgrading the underlying Android OS (e.g. upgrade to Gingerbread 2.3), modifying/upgrading the kernel, fixing bugs, removing Sprint's proprietary apps, installing 'root only' apps from the Android market (needs super user privileges), adding the ability to use WiFi-n (802.11n), adding the ability to use Bluetooth mouse, keyboard, and Wii controller, adding the ability to output the entire system display via HDMI (mirroring), increasing performance, increasing battery life, and one of the most popular uses: free WiFi hotspot access which normally requires paying Sprint an additional $30 fee. Rooting is also legitimized as needed to overcome the device's clock reference bug (see next section).
The good: The HTC Evo 4G delivered respectable 4G speeds, and the mobile hot-spot feature lets you connect up to eight devices. The smartphone has a front-facing camera for video chats and also comes with an 8-megapixel camera with HD-video-recording capabilities. The Evo ships with YouTube's HQ video player, Android 2.1 with HTC Sense, and an HDMI port. Other highlights include an extra-large 4.3-inch touch screen and a 1GHz Snapdragon processor.
Ever since it was first introduced at CTIA 2010, the anticipation and hype surrounding the HTC Evo 4G has taken on a life of its own. Come June 4, we will finally see America's first 4G smartphone become a reality. Of course, this type of device comes with a whole set of expectations, which can either be met with joy or disappointment. Fortunately, for Sprint and HTC, it's more of ... Expand full review
