It’s been over two years since HTC first launched the Excalibur, better known as the T-Mobile Dash here in the States. Originally released with a metal-like finish (perhaps paying homage to its Arthurian roots), this affordable smartphone (currently $99 after MIR) is finally receiving a makeover, albeit a minor one, just in time for the new year. The Dash is now available in Darth Vader’s favorite color – black.

Unfortunately, not much else has changed. The device still lacks 3G support, working only on GPRS/EDGE and WiFi, and it runs WinMo 6.0, not the latest 6.1 release. Otherwise this Dash features a QWERTY keyboard, 1.3MP still/video camera and MicroSD slot similar, if not identical, to the previous model.

Before running out to grab your new black Dash, just keep in mind – You don’t know the power of the Dark Side!