HTC plans to launch its next-generation mid-range model on its Chinese website, the HTC One X9. The successor of the HTC One A9 has been already certified by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, as HTC is trying to penetrate into the Chinese market.

Market sources said that the HTC One X9 would look similar to the HTC One A9, with a metal case and two color choices.

The new model is expected to feature the latest MediaTek processor, a 5.5-inch screen, and a 13-megapixel camera with optical image stabilization.

Sources said the new model is expected to retail for less than US$500 and could hit the international market in the first quarter of next year.

HTC is also expected to launch the HTC One M10 and HTC One A10 next year. It could also add the HTC One X series to its product line at that time.

German ban for One M9 Model

In relatednews, HTC is likely to be prohibited from continuing to sell its HTC One M9 and other models in Germany for violating a patent involving voice coding technology owned by Acacia, according to a district court ruling in Mannheim, Germany.

HTC will appeal the case in order to protect the interests of its client and consumers and also to minimize the impact on its business in Germany.

Germany, the UK and France are the major markets for HTC in Europe, and the case may affect 2% of HTC's overall smartphone shipments.