It looks like Arne Hess over at theunwired.net got his hands on a pre-release HTC Advantage X7510. He has posted an unboxing video for anyone interested in checking out this new version of the X7500. The X7510 doubles in SSD storage capacity from the X7500’s 8GB up to 16GB. Other notable changes — the unit is now running WinMo 6.1, the d-pad on the front left of the device has been removed, and the keyboard has been redesigned with a completely flat touch based input keyboard. The keyboard helps alert the user to key presses using haptic feedback in the form of a small vibration when a key is pressed as well as an audible noise. I’m not sure how well the new keyboard will work, haptic feedback definitely helps, but initial tactile sensation (ie: physically raised keys) is probably the greatest benefactor to a good typing experience. I’m not sure exactly what kind of technology is being used to detect keyboard presses, but if it is capacitive they could capitalize on it greatly by featuring an intelligent correction system like that of the iPhone’s. Unfortunately for some, recent news has told us that the X7510 will not end up for sale in the US. Click the image to head over to the video unboxing page.
The 7510 looks a bit cooler than the 7500 but I have to question the loss of the front buttons on the device. I use my 7500 a lot in tablet mode and the buttons are invaluable.
Apart from OS (see below how to sort that) the 7510 really offers nothing more than a bit more storage than the 7500 other than a higher price tag. They are both great devices!
7500/7501 users only need to nip over to XDA-developers.com to get the 7510 Windows mobile 6.1 ROM for their device with a lot of nice extras in it too.