HTC is the latest to join in on the blockchain bandwagon, according to the reports reaching us from our sources, the company announced that it was making plans to make a new blockchain-powered Android phone. The device is to be called Exodus and the company is giving it a universal wallet and hardware support for cryptocurrencies and decentralized apps.
To begin with, the Exodus phone will have support for bitcoin, ethereum and other major networks, and later, more partnerships are expected to come on. HTC visualizes a native blockchain network that uses Exodus phones as nodes that support cryptocurrency trading between users. The company is also thinking of letting people to purchase the Exodus phone with cryptocurrency. No price tag has been attached to the phone yet.
Our sources further report that HTC Vive founder Phil Chen will be heading all blockchain initiatives. The move came after the recent trend of Facebook and Instagram executives switching over to lead a blockchain division for Facebook. The new title accorded to Phil Chen is now “decentralized chief officer.” We have reached out to HTC for more information.
During the New York City blockchain conference, Consensus 2018, Phil Chen said:
“We envision a phone where you hold your own keys, you own your own identity and data, and your phone is the hub.”
HTC’s Exodus might be the world’s second blockchain-powered phone. The first one which was created by Sirin Labs called Finney is a phone that allows people to store and use digital currencies while skipping transaction fees. The cost is $1000.
It is interesting to note the range of companies that have launched their own blockchain initiatives, from established companies seeking more profits as well as to remain competitive to decentralized networks, to those seeking novelty, and others that are trying to rescue their images. HTC, that laid off a substantial portion of its US staff this year and merged its smartphone and virtual reality divisions seems to fall in the last category of companies.
