[1] Because of the low end processor, the HTC Watch movie rental service and the 3D scrolling effects on the home screens were not available.

HTC Explorer is considered a low-end smartphone, due to its comparatively low specifications.

It offered Android 2.3 Gingerbread, with proprietary HTC Sense 3.5 custom graphical user interface by the manufacturer.

[1] The Explorer has an unlockable bootloader, allowing users from the outset to further develop the OS and "root" the device, or gain legitimate privileged control in Android's subsystem.

The rear of the Explorer features a patterned plastic surface with a rubbery, leathery texture to help users to grip and hold the device, with an additional plate of brushed metal at the center of the rear cover.