CES: Sprint announces HTC EVO Shift 4G and 3G/4G MiFi devices

I bought the Sprint HTC EVO 4G on launch day and it earned my top smartphone spot twice in 2010. We heard rumors that another HTC 4G device, this time with a keyboard, was coming and today Sprint revealed the HTC EVO Shift 4G that will be available for just $149.99 on 9 January. Sprint also will finally offer another 4G hotspot device (in addition to the Overdrive) in the MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot available on 27 February for $49.99

HTC EVO Shift 4G

After looking at the fine specs of the HTC EVO Shift 4G, I have to say I still think the EVO 4G is the better device with bigger screen, better camera and kickstand ;) Some of the specifications for the HTC Shift 4G are as follows: 800 MHz processor Android 2.2 5 megapixel camera with 720p HD camcorder 3.6 inch capacitive display Slide-out QWERTY keyboard 1500 mAh battery

You can check out some photos of it in the ZDNet image gallery. I am not sure about the directional pad on the bottom right of the keyboard, but if you like physical QWERTY keyboards this looks like a device to consider. I have really moved away from physical QWERTY keyboards myself and it is no longer a priority for me. The HTC EVO Shift 4G is priced $100 less than the EVO 4G.

MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot

I liked using the Overdrive, but prefer the smaller form factor of the MiFi so think this device will appeal to people, especially at the $49.99 price. This MiFi is a Novatel Wireless device with a battery life of up to four hours. I am not sure if that is with 4G speeds though. It also has a microSD card slot, GPS receiver, and even an eInk display for status indicators. Lack of indication was one reason I didn't like the original MiFi device.