HTC has unveiled its new U11 Eyes phone, featuring dual front cameras that the company says are designed for taking selfies. The two front-facing 5-megapixel cameras feature HDR boost, a bokeh mode which adjusts the depth-of-field in photographs (in real-time or after the photo is taken), and a beauty mode that HTC promises will create “spectacular selfies.”
The U11 also has a Snapdragon 652 processor, a 6-inch screen, 12MP rear camera, face unlock, and edge sense (a HTC gimmick that allows you to launch apps, zoom into maps, or perform other functions by squeezing the sides of the phone). It’s also water and dust resistant and has a massive 3,930mAh battery. It’s a mid-range device, but features the same liquid-shiny design as earlier U11 handsets.
Engadget says HTC claims the U11 Eyes’ camera can distinguish between a real human face and those shown on a photo or video. The face unlock feature can also recognize you even if you’re wearing sunglasses or a breathing mask (this might be useful for the Chinese market, where many users wear air pollution masks when out and about).
There are a few possible disadvantages, including the lack of 3.5mm headphone jack and a fingerprint sensor located on the back of the phone. (Some people still find this an awkward position despite its popularity with manufacturers.) The U11 Eyes comes in red, silver, and black, and will go on sale in Hong Kong from Wednesday, with the 64GB model costing HK$3,898 (about $500). It’s due out in China later this month, though at this point there’s no indication of a global release.