Back in 1997, HTC, then known as High-Tech Computer Corporation, was founded by Peter Chou, Cher Wang, and H. T. Cho (oddly familiar initials that guy, eh?) Ever since, the company has evolved from being an ODM for others like Compaq Computers and T-Mobile to becoming a standalone branded smartphone manufacturer.

Up until today, Chou was the company's CEO, while Wang and H.T. Cho sat as Chairmen of the board, with the latter being its Director too. That's about to change though, since Cher Wang is taking over as CEO while Chou transitions to a more product-oriented position as Head of HTC Future Development Lab.

The change didn't come as a surprise to many (it didn't even influence HTC's stock) since Wang had already been taking on more responsibilities inside the company for more than a year, a move that was thought to be transitory but ended up being permanent. It also makes sense given HTC's less than stellar financial performance over the past few years, the departures of several senior executives, and Chou's known inkling toward product design and development more than the managerial aspects of his position.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Wang declared, "I don’t really think a year ago would have been the right time" to replace Chou, but, "I know the company, I know the people, and I have the vision [...] I think I am the best candidate. I suggested it." Looks like she saw an opening and went for it.

Chou isn't being completely discarded though, he seems to be pulling a bit of a Page (from Google's book). As Head of the Future Development Lab, he is going to be less involved with the business side of things and "will be instrumental in identifying future growth opportunities for the Company."

It seems that the tags are being re-arranged more suitably to everyone's strengths at HTC, so let's hope that this change helps the company advance and get out more interesting products in the future. Less Re's, Grip's, and weird RDJ ads please.

Alternate Title: HTC Says Ciao To Chou And Gives His Chair To Cher

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Source: HTC