HTC looks to take advantage of upcoming 5G networks as it announces the 5G Hub at MWC 2019-- a combo of dedicated 5G mobile smart hub, Android entertainment device and battery pack.
The 5G Hub is primarily a 5G hotspot, one allowing up to 20 users to connect to the 5G network. It promises connectivity "dramatically faster than 4G LTE networks," and will even allow the streaming of VR content to a headset, with no need for PC or cables. The device runs on Android 9 with HTC Sense and Google Assistant, and can act as a home media centre thanks to a 5-inch 1250 x 720 resolution display, dual speakers and always listening mic.
Powering the device is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, 4GB RAM, 32GB storage (expandable to 512GB via microSD card) and a big 7660mAh battery allowing use as a power pack with other devices. The aforementioned 5G connectivity comes through a Snapdragon X50 modem with up to 2.63 Gbps downlink, 287 Mbps uplink and 4G LTE fallback support, as well as a Qualcomm 2x2 Wifi 6-ready chipset.
The 5G Hub will be available in Europe from a number of carriers, namely Three UK, Deutsche Telekom (Germany), Sunrise (Switzerland), and Elisa (Finland).