HTC Sensation XE review

HTC handset gets rebooted with Ice Cream Sandwich

HTC Sensation XE
The definitive HTC Sensation XE review

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We have already mentioned that we feel the HTC Sensation XE feels quicker under finger since its upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich and this is reflected when it comes to web browsing.

The stock Android internet browser gets a lick of Sense paint giving it a sleek and smart appearance and it speedily opens pages whether on Wi-Fi or 3G.

HTC sensation xe ice cream sandwich review

The TechRadar homepage was fully loaded in less than 15 seconds with full 3G signal – down from 18 seconds pre-Ice Cream Sandwich, showing the noticeable speed improvement with the new operating system.

Adobe Flash is supported on the Sensation XE, but you will need to download the free Adobe Flash Player from the Android Market (now called Google Play) first.

We would like to see HTC have this pre-installed on the phone, saving people time and eradicating the error message displayed online if you don't have the player.

The slick operating system, speedy dual-core processor and crisp qHD screen means web browsing is a pleasure and the Sensation XE will happily scoot you round even the most media heavy sites with ease, reflowing text as you pinch-to-zoom.

HTC sensation xe ice cream sandwich review

Hit the menu button below the screen and you will be able to access the bookmarks menu, flip between multiple windows and various other options including history and downloads.

HTC sensation xe ice cream sandwich review

Bookmarks are displayed as large thumbnails and a widget can be popped onto a home screen, allowing you to jump direct to your favourite sites with one touch.

Before the upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich and Sense 3.6, Google suggested search options were not available when you typed in the URL bar. The good news is this has been reinstated, so you can now streamline your searching experience.

John McCann
Global Managing Editor

John joined TechRadar over a decade ago as Staff Writer for Phones, and over the years has built up a vast knowledge of the tech industry. He's interviewed CEOs from some of the world's biggest tech firms, visited their HQs and has appeared on live TV and radio, including Sky News, BBC News, BBC World News, Al Jazeera, LBC and BBC Radio 4. Originally specializing in phones, tablets and wearables, John is now TechRadar's resident automotive expert, reviewing the latest and greatest EVs and PHEVs on the market. John also looks after the day-to-day running of the site.