Skip to main content

AT&T trying to ditch the HTC Status?

htc status The mythical Facebook phone became something of a unicorn in the tech world. The rumors swirled and picked up steam early this year, despite Zuckerberg and co.’s protestations (who can forget the “Um.No,” response the founder gave?). And while we’re not quite ready to give up on the idea that Facebook has zero interest in becoming a more established mobile player, it turns out that dipping its toe in the water might not have gone so well.

TechCrunch claims that a “trusted source close to AT&T” says the HTC Status – aka, the Facebook phone – isn’t long for this world. The carrier wants to get rid of it due to poor sales. The phone has been on the market for about a month, and apparently has failed to make an impression on consumers. Which isn’t all the surprising: When your selling point is a tiny, dedicated-Facebook button, it doesn’t speak well of a device’s market impact. Smartphone consumers want more than that, and the exploding app market means we don’t have to settle for something like this.

We’re not saying that all of the Status’ attributes were doomed. Some of the pre-installed software for Facebook sharing seems like it could have potential. Auto-publishing the music you’re listening to and integrating Facebook info into your contact list are both features that can (and are) going places, but the lacking hardware just doesn’t justify the whole package. It has an antiquated BlackBerry build with a 2.6-inch display. The Status is clearly meant to be an inexpensive alternative, but there are other such options out there to meet this need. They might not include auto-Facebook connectivity, but people know how to do these things without being prompted by a light-up button (side note: What’s with the light-up notifications, HTC?).

And there was that whole renaming matter that likely didn’t help branding. The Status was originally the HTC ChaCha, but search company ChaCha rightfully sued for infringing on its trademark. The rename came fairly late in the game, only about three months before the launch.

For what it’s worth, AT&T has said plans for the phone “to be part of our portfolio haven’t changed,” whatever that means. But our gut tells us it’s not going to become a staple of AT&T’s lineup.

Editors' Recommendations

Molly McHugh
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Before coming to Digital Trends, Molly worked as a freelance writer, occasional photographer, and general technical lackey…
The best OnePlus 8T cases and covers
OnePlus 8T

There's no denying the OnePlus 8T is a gorgeous smartphone, whether you opt for it in Lunar Silver or Aquamarine Green. Its aluminum body, 6.55-inch screen, and superfast charging ensure it's a killer choice, but it doesn't come cheap. With prices starting at $600, you're going to want to keep your new OnePlus 8T protected, and that's where a good protective case comes in. We've picked out some of the best cases that not only offer protection for your phone but also look pretty stylish to boot.
Spigen Ultra Hybrid Case

Spigen's Ultra Hybrid case is, as the name suggests, a hybrid of a rigid, clear polycarbonate back and flexible, shock-absorbent TPU bumper. Offering military-grade drop protection, this case has a cool, minimalist style that's ideal for anyone wanting to show off their new OnePlus 8T. Raised bumpers around the screen and camera provide additional protection, while tactile button covers provide that satisfyingly clicky feel when pressed. For under $30, this is one of the best protective cases you'll find.

Read more
T-Mobile 5G home internet: Coverage, speeds, and plans
how to unlock your iphone use with another carrier t mobile hq sign feat 720x720

Verizon may have been the first to start deploying actual 5G, but its network was small and spotty. T-Mobile was the first to an arguably much more important title -- the first to launch nationwide 5G network coverage. And, along with that nationwide network, the company has also started deploying its 5G home internet service.

Unlike Verizon, T-Mobile was initially quiet about its 5G home internet service, and it would be easy not to have known that it even had one. But since then, the company has announced its availability to the public -- and it will likely continue to roll out to more users over the next few years.

Read more
The best OnePlus 7T screen protectors
oneplus 7t review pocket

The OnePlus 7T  may be the Android phone for the rest of us. It's not the latest OnePlus phone anymore, but with every feature carefully planned, and at a smidgen under $600, there are no wasted bells and whistles. The critical options are all there: Fast charging, speedy processor, easy-to-use software, and a versatile camera. It’s attractive without that iPhone or Samsung flash, but offers some intriguing and unique features of its own. Even if it is relatively inexpensive compared to some other smartphones out there, you'll want to start by shielding its glass face from dust, debris, and impact -- and perhaps later on even consider a case to keep it perfectly safe. We've identified the best OnePlus 7T screen protectors to get you started.
Janmitta for OnePlus 7T Screen Protector

This tempered glass screen protector comes in a three-pack to shield your phone against the elements, including sweat, fingerprints, and oily residue. It features 9H hardness with a 2.5D arc design that will prevent you from breaking, scratching, or otherwise damaging your screen. It maintains a highly sensitive touch screen, so won't interfere with your phone running quickly and smoothly. It also maintains the original color of the screen, so everything should be clear. The bubble-free installation is easy to accomplish.

Read more