It was nearly a couple of months ago when HTC had first officially confirmed the existence of Exodus, which just might hold the distinction of being the first handset release from a major phone maker that is designed specifically with blockchain encryption. For those not in the know, blockchain is a form of technology that is utilized to ensure safety in various types of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
During an interview with The Verge, Phil Chen, the chief cryptocurrency officer at HTC, had announced that the Exodus smartphone will be priced at around a thousand dollars, and should begin shipping before the end of this year (or shortly after the start of next year). Chen did say that more details regarding pricing and availability will be made public by next month, but other than that, there is not much solid information.
HTC’s Exodus device should start generating some buzz (if it has not already), mainly due to its role in managing cryptocurrencies. By virtue of its blockchain encryption, the Exodus will basically allow mobile users to save their blockchain currencies, as well as other potentially sensitive data, safely in the smartphone itself, as opposed to storing them in the cloud.
According to Chen, HTC is working on releasing a model some time within the fall season of this year. Among other many things, the Taiwanese tech giant is looking to integrate a cryptocurrency wallet to the Exodus, and also find some means for mining currency on mobile that is more efficient.
It appears that HTC has been busying itself having some fun with blockchain technology. Just this week, the mobile manufacturer also formally introduced a blockchain game called CryptoKitties. This game allows users to gather and even sire virtual felines.
While it is true that blockchain is more associated with cryptocurrencies, not many people realize that the technology can also be used to produce a super secure digital paper trail that should offer proof of ownership. Of course, that same thing could also be applied to cute little digital cat pets.
Interestingly, the CryptoKitties game is expected to make its debut on the U12 Plus -- the flagship device offering that HTC had unveiled more than a month ago. We say interestingly because despite the U12 Plus’ impressive specs, it is not built for crypto technology. But one can argue that the U12 Plus would do well to make more people become aware of blockchain, and its potential uses on mobile devices, for both business and pleasure.
