HTC CEO: We're Committed To Beats Audio

HTC has officially commented on the replacement of its Chief Financial Officer this week, denying speculation that it shows a weakening in commitment to Beats By Dre. "The integration of the Beats brand and technology in the new HTC One series is a clear indication of our commitment to this partnership" HTC CEO Peter Chou said today. Outgoing CFO Winston Yung – who is being shifted to a "corporate development role" – had been connected by some to earlier enthusiasm around Beats Audio.

HTC gave SlashGear the following statement:

On Monday, HTC announced the appointment of Chia-Lin Chang as Chief Financial Officer with Winston Yung, his predecessor, transitioning to a corporate development role.

"Media speculation that ties this announcement to HTC's partnership and investment in Beats By Dre is categorically inaccurate," said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC Corporation. "HTC and Beats have made impressive progress in innovation and brand awareness and the integration of the Beats brand and technology in the new HTC One series is a clear indication of our commitment to this partnership."

The exact reasons for Yung's "transition" and replacement by Chia-Lin Chang are still unknown. Yung had been an outspoken member of the HTC exec team, notably responsible for a number of the company's public statements on strategy, such as confirming the existence – though not responsible for founding – of the so-called Studio division behind the 2012 range of phones.

That 2012 range is off to a considerably stronger start than any of HTC's devices last year. The flagship One X impressed us, while its midrange counterpart the One S surprised us with its high-end ambitions. Most recently, the entry-level One V proved to be a solid all-rounder.