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Platform holder Microsoft has finally announced a firm date for the European launch of its Windows Phone 7 platform – October 21st.
The news comes from an ongoing press conference, into which none other Apple-evangelist Stephen Fry has just been welcomed. Cast aside those doubts you had about Microsoft being serious about squaring up to Apple in the mobile space.
The launch comes ahead of its US arrival in November. Samsung, LG, HTC and Dell are amongst the first manufacturers to confirm devices supporting the operating system.
The support of all five UK mobile phone operators has also been confirmed, with each firm rushing to grab exclusive rights to certain handsets. Orange has already announced that it will be the exclusive stockist of both the HTC 7 Mozart and the Samsung Omnia 7.
We have a beautiful line-up in this first wave of Windows Phone 7 handsets,” Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer stated.
Microsoft and its partners are delivering a different kind of mobile phone and experience — one that makes everyday tasks faster by getting more done in fewer steps and providing timely information in a ‘glance and go’ format.”
In addition, EA – a publisher that to date has been notably absent from the WP7 bandwagon – has announced its support for the platform, with launch titles such as Need for Speed, The Sims and Tetris in the works.
