After weeks of hints, rumors, and rough guesses we finally have official confirmation. The HTC Hero will come to the Sprint network on October 11th of this year. Customers will be able to purchase the new Android smartphone via the Internet, phone sales, or at their local Best Buy.

The Hero will cost $179.99 with a 2 year plan, and after $50 of "instant savings" and a $100 mail-in rebate. According to Boy Genius the HTC Hero for Sprint is actually a slightly altered version of the smartphone. It has more rounded edges and gentler contours. All in all, I think it looks pretty sweet.

What do you think about the new Hero? Do you wish it was hitting your carrier or, if you're with Sprint, are you going to head down to Best Buy in mid-October and nab one?