HTC has started taking orders for its new blockchain smartphone. Customers can pay for the HTC Exodus with bitcoin or Ethereum cryptocurrencies, and the first devices will be delivered in December.
HTC said the Exodus 1 will offer the premium features of its flagship smartphones, while including blockchain software and a cold storage wallet for storing cryptocurrency keys and other personal data. The company is marketing the device not just to cryptocurrency users but anyone who wants to "take back control" of their personal data.
Cryptokitties is the first in a planned range of apps for a blockchain marketplace and crypto gaming apps store from HTC. The game uses the same system as blockchain to collect unique virtual cats and will be available on other devices as well, starting with the HTC U12+. The company is inviting other developers to distribute their blockchain games, collectibles and non-fungible tokens through its storefront, and is also working with Bitmark, the crypto-based digital ownership project.
Other features of the Exodus smartphone include the Android OS, 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, IP68 water and dust resistance, 6-inch Quad HD+ display with 18:9 aspect ratio, 16MP dual rear cameras and 8MP dual front cameras.
