HTC Magic smartphone
HTC

HTC Magic

April 27, 2009 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The HTC Magic was a pioneering Android smartphone released in 2009, notable as HTC's second Android device and the first to feature a full touchscreen interface without a physical keyboard. It played a significant role in the early adoption and evolution of the Android operating system.
Display3.2-inch HVGA TFT touchscreen
ChipsetQualcomm MSM7200A
Main Camera3.2 MP autofocus
BatteryRemovable 1340 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $125

💰 HTC Magic Price

The HTC Magic lowest price is $125, based on current retailer listings.

  • eBay Seller (retrotech_deals) Lowest Price $125 Visit →
  • eBay Seller (vintagetech_us) $216 Visit →

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeTFT capacitive touchscreen, 65K colors
Size3.2 inches
Resolution320 x 480 pixels (HVGA)
Pixel Density~180 ppi

Platform

OSAndroid 1.5 (Cupcake), upgradable to 1.6 (Donut)
ChipsetQualcomm MSM7200A
CPU528 MHz ARM 11

Memory

Card slotmicroSD, up to 16 GB supported
Internal512 MB ROM, 288 MB RAM

Main Camera

Single3.2 MP, autofocus
Video352x288 (CIF) @ 15fps

Selfie Camera

SingleNone

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1340 mAh
Stand-byUp to 600 h
Talk timeUp to 7 h 30 min

Body

Dimensions113 x 55.56 x 13.65 mm (4.45 x 2.19 x 0.54 in)
Weight116 g (4.1 oz)
SIMMini-SIM
ColorsBlack (Gray Trim), Merlot (Black Trim), White (Silver Trim)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11b/g
Bluetooth2.0, A2DP
PositioningGPS
USBminiUSB 2.0 (ExtUSB)

Launch

AnnouncedFebruary 2009
StatusDiscontinued

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Historical significance as an early Android device.
  • Compact and ergonomic design for its time.
  • User-replaceable battery.
  • Trackball offered unique navigation.
  • Paved the way for future Android touchscreens.

Cons

  • Outdated operating system (Android 1.5/1.6).
  • Very limited app compatibility in modern times.
  • Low resolution display by today's standards.
  • Poor camera performance compared to modern phones.
  • Slow processor and limited RAM.
  • Lack of a front-facing camera.
  • Some versions lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack.
★ Our Verdict

The HTC Magic was a groundbreaking device for its era, showcasing the potential of Android with a full touchscreen experience, despite its modest specifications by today's standards.

The HTC Magic is no longer a viable option for daily use due to its severely outdated software, lack of modern app support, and limited hardware capabilities. It is best suited for collectors of vintage mobile phones or technology enthusiasts interested in the history of Android. If purchasing, prioritize units in good cosmetic condition with working components, understanding that battery life will be minimal and finding compatible accessories might be challenging. Expect to pay a premium for well-preserved, functional examples, but do not consider it for practical smartphone functions.

Reviewed by the infozme.com Editorial Team — see how we research & rate phones.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • HTC Magic Handset
  • Headphones
  • Wall Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Leather Pouch
  • Documentation
  • 2 GB microSD card

For a vintage device like the HTC Magic, current manufacturer warranty information is no longer applicable; any purchase today would likely be from a reseller with their own limited return policy.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the HTC Magic?

The HTC Magic was one of the earliest Android smartphones, released in 2009, and was notable for being HTC's first Android device with a full touchscreen and no physical keyboard.

When was the HTC Magic released?

The HTC Magic was officially announced in February 2009 and first released on April 27, 2009.

What operating system did the HTC Magic run?

It originally launched with Android 1.5 Cupcake and could be updated to Android 1.6 Donut.

Does the HTC Magic have a physical keyboard?

No, the HTC Magic was significant for being HTC's first Android phone without a physical keyboard, relying solely on its touchscreen for input.

Can I still use an HTC Magic today?

While technically functional, the HTC Magic is not practical for modern daily use due to its severely outdated software, lack of app support, and limited hardware. It is primarily a collector's item.

What are the key specifications of the HTC Magic?

It featured a 3.2-inch HVGA display, a 528 MHz processor, 288 MB RAM, 512 MB ROM, a 3.2 MP camera, and a 1340 mAh removable battery.