HTC Updates Advantage with Improved Keyboard, 16GB of Storage, and TouchFLO

When we first reviewed the $899 Advantage we were impressed with the sheer number of features HTC stuffed into this 5-inch Windows Mobile device–fast 624-MHz processor, high-speed HSDPA connectivity, and GPS–but were turned off by its bulk and mediocre call quality. Are the latest enhancements enough to make this tweener more compelling? HTC says that the next-gen Advantage is based on a future version of Windows Mobile, which we presume is 6.1, and that the Home screen provides one-touch access to e-mail, text messages, appointments, weather, and more. The device also boasts 16GB of storage (up from 8GB), TouchFLO software for making scrolling with a finger easy, and Opera Mobile 9 and Google Maps. You can use Google in conjunction with the built-in GPS or the more robust TomTom Navigator 6. All of these features help, but we’re most intrigued by the improved keyboard with haptic feedback, as the previous verison’s layout was a bit lifeless. Last but not least is an iPhone-like screen orientation feature, which uses the built-in G-sensor. HTC says the “Advantage 1.5″ will be available in select European countries this March, but we don’t think it will be too long before U.S. customers will be able to snag one through importers/online retailers. Stay tuned for a full review.