Sprint HTC EVO 4G LTE - Full Launch Delay

In continuation of our earlier post - we can now (un)officially confirm that the FULL launch of the HTC EVO 4G LTE is now officially delayed. This is very preliminary, however, as of 11PM tonight, we can report:

• FULL Launch DELAY


• No pre-orders will be shipped


• No HTC EVO 4G LTE devices will be sold in stores on 5/18


• Internal conversations put the launch delay at least 10 days out, however that's up to customs and a court right now

PLEASE NOTE: This can and likely will change over the next 12-24 hours, but as of right now, that is the status. We will know more after 10AM on Wednesday, and I'll try to post an update as soon as I can after that.

The official response is "The launch of HTC EVO 4G LTE has been delayed due to a standard issue with U.S. Customs". see the previous post for more details, but basically Apple is claiming that the shipments from HTC contain software/features that violate a patent it holds.

• U.S. Customs routinely inspects International Trade Commission (ITC) exculsion shipments.


• HTC is working closely with U.S. Customs to secure approval.

Here's the official responses:
If customers inquire about the delay, share the following reactively:

Q: What response do we provide customers about HTC EVO 4G LTE availability?
A: The U.S. availability of the HTC EVO 4G LTE has been delayed. HTC is working to resolve this issue and appreciates your patience as they work to get products into Sprint channels.


Q: What impact does this have to on the HTC EVO 4G LTE that I’ve already purchased through pre-order?
A: The arrival of your HTC EVO 4G LTE will be delayed until HTC is able to resolve this issue.

Q: What is the status of pre-order and when will pre-order devices be delivered?
A: HTC is working with U.S. Customs for a speedy resolution and your pre-order fee still holds the device. We will provide a ship date as soon as possible. We maintain the promise for the preorder customers that they will be among the first to receive their HTC EVO 4G LTE units.

Q: When will HTC EVO 4G LTE be available to consumers?
A: We can’t provide specific timing for product availability at this time and we appreciate your patience as HTC works to get products on store shelves as soon as possible. Educate the customer to chek the HTC EVO LTE microsite (http://www.sprint.com/evo4glte) for the availability date.

Q: What happens if I break or need to return my HTC EVO 4G LTE? Will I be able to get a replacement?
A: The delay in availability does not currently impact pre-ordered product returned for repair or replacement.

Remember: We appreciate our customers enthusiastic support and appreciate their patience as we work to get HTC EVO 4G LTE in to their hands as soon as possible.