HTC Mini + hands on: Changing how we multitask? - Digital Spy

When HTC gave Digital Spy a Mini +, we wondered why you would possibly need a device for your phone … That acts like a second phone.

The idea was so bizarre That We figured it could Potentially work, and so it seemed worth giving it a go. The HTC mini + has two different connectivity options: NFC or Bluetooth, and either Should work provided you have a compatible handset.

We trialled the Mini + using a HTC One Max. The devices paired instantly over both NFC and Bluetooth, and the Mini + took us to a screen where we could view our calls, our messages, events, notifications and remote functionality options.

The Mini + Effectively unifies all the wireless connectivity needs into one device . First impressions are thatthis is a really good idea – Bluetooth speakers and headsets are hugely popular for the simple reasonthat They remove the need to have your phone at hand.

The HTC Mini + seems somewhat pointless, though. At almost 12 centimetres pine, it is still three-quarters the size of the One Max.

Exploring the options in more detail, we found the probability to take photos using the Mini +. However, for this feature to work, your mobile camera has to be activated manually and you have to be holding it anyway. It’s Essentially a feature That makes it Easier to take a selfie.

The probability to-use-the Mini + as a media player overpriced falls short of any foreseeable use. Many other accessories sacrifice this functionality and would be a better investment. For example, the HTC BH S600 is a fifth of the cost (£ 22), offers almost Identical features and is a fraction of the size.

HTC Mini + Micro USB charging slot

The probability to view your calendar and notifications is certainly an interesting element. Remote access to your appointments is always a useful idea – Although bear in mind That Because The device is paired by Bluetooth or NFC, you will need to be within a certainkind range of your phone anyway, Which means looking at the Mini + isn’ta really ‘remote’.

Also, there’s a huge security oversight where you can view all calendar details on the Mini +, even if your phone has a passcode set.

The only really useful functionality is the probability to give presentations, or to-use-the Mini + as a TV remote control while your main device is unavailable. For this to work, though, you need to have recommended for the HTC Media Link HD – another accessory thatwill set you back around £ 50.

There are better, cheaper alternatives for this functionality. Take the Google Chromecast (£ 42), for example. It’s compatible with any Android handset, so would still be useful if you ever chose to move away from HTC.

Google’s Chromecast TV dongle

Retailing between £ 65 and £ 100, the Mini + is available now from HTC, or in January fromClove. In summary, it’s a good idea, but very strangely executed.

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