HTC One A9 release: specs leak online, launches Oct. 20

 HTC USA/Facebook

Images of the HTC One A9, also known as the HTC One Aero, have leaked online courtesy of Twitter user Steve Hemmerstoffer (@OnLeaks). According to a report from 9to5Mac, this is the phone HTC plans on unveiling this Oct. 20 during their "virtual event."

The report also points out that the device looks strikingly similar to the Apple iPhone 6 and the newer iPhone 6s. The basic build of the all-metal frame although the edges are more round, suggested to be a design choice to make the phone more comfortable to hold while also making it appear more user friendly.

Like the iPhone 6, the bottom edge of the phone has several features such as a USB port, a 3.5-mm headset jack, square grills for the speakers and the device's microphone.

The right edge features a pair of long volume rockers and a distinct power button. Its left side has two removable trays - one for the SIM card and the other for the optional microSD card. On its back, the camera is protected in a protruding glass cover, very similar to that found on the iPhone, although this camera is centered instead of being on the left side.

The report also states that the HTC One A9 is the best looking Android phone to resemble the iPhone without being a cheap clone. The only major difference other than small aesthetic changes is the large black panel on the top edge, which is speculated to be for an IR blaster such as the ones featured on the HTC One M8 and HTC One M9.

A major difference from other HTC phones is that the HTC One A9 has no front-facing speakers, a design choice most likely made to make the phone look and feel more closely to the iPhone 6.

While the HTC One A9 looks like the iPhone 6, the report points out that it will not cost as much as one since this is set to be a midrange smart phone and therefore will be much cheaper than Apple's flagship device.

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