When HTC gave Digital Spy a Mini+, we wondered why you would possibly need a device for your phone... that acts like a second phone.
The idea was so bizarre that we figured it could potentially work, and so it seemed worth giving it a go. The HTC mini+ has two different connectivity options: NFC or Bluetooth, and either should work provided you have a compatible handset.
We trialled the Mini+ using a HTC One Max. The devices paired instantly over both NFC and Bluetooth, and the Mini+ took us to a screen where we could view our calls, our messages, events, notifications and remote functionality options.
The Mini+ effectively unifies all wireless connectivity needs into one device. First impressions are that this is a really good idea - Bluetooth speakers and headsets are hugely popular for the simple reason that they remove the need to have your phone at hand.
The HTC Mini+ seems somewhat pointless, though. At almost 12 centimetres tall, it is still three-quarters the size of the One Max.
Exploring the options in more detail, we found the ability to take photos using the Mini+. However, for this feature to work, your mobile camera has to be activated manually and you have to be holding it anyway. It's essentially a feature that makes it easier to take a selfie.
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The ability to use the Mini+ as a media player also falls short of any foreseeable use. Many other accessories offer this functionality and would be a better investment. For example, the HTC BH S600 is a fifth of the cost (£22), offers almost identical features and is a fraction of the size.
The ability to view your calendar and notifications is certainly an interesting element. Remote access to your appointments is always a useful idea - although bear in mind that because the device is paired by Bluetooth or NFC, you will need to be within a certain range of your phone anyway, which means looking at the Mini+ isn't really 'remote'.
Also, there's a huge security oversight where you can view all calendar details on the Mini+, even if your phone has a passcode set.
The only really useful functionality is the ability to give presentations, or to use the Mini+ as a TV remote control while your main device is unavailable. For this to work, though, you need to have purchased the HTC Media Link HD - another accessory that will set you back around £50.
There are better, cheaper alternatives for this functionality. Take the Google Chromecast (£42), for example. It's compatible with any Android handset, so would still be useful if you ever chose to move away from HTC.
Retailing between £65 and £100, the Mini+ is available now from HTC, or in January fromClove. In summary, it's a good idea, but very strangely executed.
