HTC Hero Available a Bit Early at Some Sprint Stores

Sprint's official launch of the HTC Hero isn't until tomorrow, but custormers are reporting that it's already being sold in some of this carrier's retail stores.

This smartphone -- Sprint's first based on Google's Android OS -- is not yet listed on this company's web site, though. That apparently will have to wait until tomorrow.

The Hero will also be offered by the retailer Best Buy, but not today.

It is selling for $180 after a $50 instant savings and a $100 mail-in rebate with a two-year service agreement.

An Overview of the HTC Hero
Sprint's version of the Hero has a  rounded tablet shape, without the prominent "chin" of the European version. Like its European brother, includes a 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen, and lacks a hardware keyboard.

It runs Android 1.5, but HTC  has replaced the standard UI with one of its own, called HTC Sense.  The standard Google applications are still included, and users of this smartphone will have access to the 10,000+ applications currently on the Android Market, the on-device software store. This includes popular titles like ShopSavvy, Twitter,  MySpace Mobile, Pac-Man, and more.

In addition, Sprint has added its own services, like Sprint TV.

Naturally, this smartphone can access Sprint's CDMA network, and it supports EV-DO Rev. A mobile broadband. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0.

Other features include a microSD card slot with support for 32 GB cards, a GPS receiver, a 5.0 MPx camera with video recording, plus a digital compass and a gravity-sensor.