HTC today announced the Android powered Hero which was not really a surprise. It does, however, look brilliant! Clove is now taking pre-orders for the device which should be shipping on 3rd July.

A new era in smartphone communication and connectivity is here.  The Hero is the first unlocked SIM Free Google Android smartphone.

A compact, yet powerful device, the HTC Hero feels good in the hand, and great when held to the ear, thanks to the bold, yet stylish ‘chin’ that the device has.

A customised ‘Sense’ interface has been installed by HTC, making the interaction with the Hero feel more natural and intuitive.  The open platform makes customisation and personalisation simple.  Add applications, take photos, connect to your social networks or navigate from A to B, all from the palm of your hand.

The Hero is all about you.  Whether you intend to use it for personal or business, with the HTC Hero and the Android platform you can easily connect to your contacts, calendar and other Google services thanks to the integrated Google support.

Download emails to your device, whether it be your personal account with a third party provider, Google Mail or your companys exchange server you need to connect to, it is all possible on the Hero.

The touch screen (wih an anti-fingerprint coating) offers a responsive mechanism for text and data entry, whilst a trackball and designated buttons offers simple access to the most common applications and features.

The on board 5 megapixel camera, is perfect for capturing those moments.  A still image or a video, upload the footage to your social network account from wherever you are.  Using the WiFi or 3G/HSDPA connection, you can log into your online account, upload the content and share with the world.

Your friends are in town and they call you to meet them.  Only problem is your not too sure how to get there.  No problem, just access the Google Maps application and navigate with ease.

When the day is done and you just want to kick back and forget, then connect your headphones to the 3.5mm audio jack and  listen to your favourite music or watch a movie that is stored on the microSD card you have installed into the device.