<p> <i> 15.09 pm </i> HTC unveils new devices at Barcelona

HTC has announced a new flagship smartphone, a virtual reality headset and a wearable fitness tracker at its Mobile World Congress press conference in Barcelona.

The HTC One M9 has the latest Snapdragon 810 processor and a new 20MP rear camera and will be available in Ireland by the middle of March.

The design has changed too, with a new combination sliver and gold unibody chassis and a more familiar brushed metal finish on the back.

The new device comes with an upgraded version of HTC's Sense, which the company said will adjust the home screen and apps on display depending on the users location.

The device has new BoomSound speakers, records 4K video and has HTC Connect, which automatically connects the smartphone to compatible devices for the purpose of streaming video.

HTC also announced that it is to partner with gaming company Valve to produce a new virtual reality headset called Vive. The device has 70 sensors to give a 360 degree room scale experience, HTC said.

It will also come with wireless controllers for gaming. The developer edition will be available by Spring, with HTC promising to have a consumer product ready before year end.

The company also announced a new fitness tracker that it has developed in conjunction with Under Armour. The HTC Grip is compatible with Android and iOS devices, as well as Bluetooth-enabled accessories like heart-rate monitors.

With a 1.8 inch PMOLED screen, the device also has GPS and is waterproof, making it capable of tracking and recording a variety of workouts, from running and cycling to time spent at the gym.</p>