HTC have made a name for themselves with capable, business-friendly smartphones, and when back in March 2007 they first suggested they were turning their hand to the UMPC market there was no shortage of interest. Boasting full Windows Vista support, as well as a cut-down quick-start SnapVue interface for basic tasks, QWERTY keyboard, touchscreen and multiple wireless options, the HTC Shift was hailed by some as likely to be the first decent UMPC. The subsequent journey from announcement to actual launch – a point first estimated for Q3 2007 – has been punctuated by delays, wavering interest and more than a little criticism of how competitive its specs are in light of the latest competition; HTC sent over the new CDMA version of the Shift, complete with Sprint EV-DO support, for SlashGear to see whether time has been kind to the UMPC.

First impressions count for a lot when you’ve just spent $1,500 (unsubsidized) on a device, and HTC make a decent attempt of giving the Shift’s packaging a premium feel. Inside the metal-effect sleeve and matte cardboard box is the UMPC itself, a tri-fold leather case, tiny AC power brick in its own felt drawstring bag, wired hands-free kit with stereo earbuds, and a surprisingly chunky breakout box that adds three USB, a miniUSB and ethernet ports via the Shift’s single onboard USB. Somewhat strangely, the leather case is actually attached to the Shift by screws; perhaps HTC are trying to avoid too many broken screen repairs from those who might normally carry their gadgets in the raw.
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