HTC launches two new Windows smartphones

The technology company HTC has launched two Windows Phone 8 handsets at an event in New York, named the 8X and 8S devices.

The two new smartphones are called the 8X and the 8S, according to Techwatch. The 8X device is HTC's heavyweight device. Both feature a version of Microsoft Windows designed for smartphones. The 8X smartphone features a 4.3" display and is designed to match HTC's other leading device, the One X (which is an Android device). Tech-World reports that the 8X device boasts an 8 megapixel camera on its rear. The camera is supported by a newly designed chip which is intended to generate a faster focus speed and clearer shots. In addition, there is also a 2.1 megapixel front camera, which is designed for video chats. This camera has an additional wide-angle feature. A further feature is the ability to use the 8X device for "touchless" payments through the use of a NFC (near field communication) chip. The South Korean firm's 8S model is smaller, with a 4" screen, and less powerful. For instance, the camera is only capable of a 5 megapixel picture quality. Both phones feature a new design which marks them out as different from the current HTC range, having tapered edges which are thinner at the bottom. TechRadar states that both models have a reconfigured music system called Beats Audio sound equipment, which is intended to enhance the listening experience. The adoption of the specially designed Microsoft Windows software for smartphones comes after both Nokia (with the Lumia 920) and Samsung (the Optimus G) have unveiled Windows equipped devices. Both of the new HTC smartphones will be available from November, with 8X to be made available in 50 countries and the 8S in 52 countries.