Is HTC prepping an iPod Touch rival?

From CNET News.com: A newly uncovered patent design from HTC indicates that the "quietly brilliant" hardware maker could be secretly working on a personal media player.

Initially discovered and detailed by Patentbolt, the filing reveals that the company applied for the patent in 2011, and the device appears to have a design that falls in line with HTC's recent smartphone offerings.

The front face of the unit has speakers across both the top and the bottom, leading us to expect stereo sound. The backside has yet another set of speakers, as well as a camera and the familiar HTC kickstand. Although there is no mention of them, we can clearly see microUSB and/or microHDMI ports. Similarly, we should also anticipate a 3.5mm headphone jack for plugging into speakers or docks.

While this might look like an HTC smartphone at first blush, Patenbolt points out that the patent makes no reference to GSM, 3G or LTE. Given that it only suggests Wi-Fi connectivity, this has all the makings of something similar to the Samsung Galaxy Player.

Considering HTC's investment in Beats by Dr. Dre technology it was only a matter of time before we saw this type of device. Moving beyond headphones and an enhanced audio experience, this could help HTC dip their toes into other waters.

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