Microsoft today confirmed the hardware partners for their upcoming Windows Phone 7 due later this year.
Senior product manager for Microsoft, Greg Sullivan, confirmed with Pocket-lint that consumers can expect to see handsets from Dell, Asus, LG, HTC and Samsung later on this year at launch. Microsoft also mentioned that the preview headset that was sent out to developers isn"t actually a finalized headset from Samsung, and will not be launching.
In a surprise move from Microsoft, Sullivan mentioned that they would not be giving exclusive carrier rights to any company in the U.S. or UK, saying “we want as many people as possible to be able to get it.” A smart move by Microsoft, something which has crippled availability to other phones in the U.S. that force consumers into a certain carrier or plan for a phone.
That will be five handsets Microsoft will have on launch, all with a full QWERTY keyboard and full touch screen. Microsoft firmly believes that it can quickly jump in with the top four mobile phone makers, along with the likes of Google (Android), RIM (BlackBerry) and of course Apple (iPhone).
Microsoft is looking to dominate yet another market, as they have already had success with Windows 7, Office 2010 and Visual Studios 2010 this year, Windows Phone 7 looks promising to many consumers and enthusiasts. Windows Phone 7 devices are expected to go on sale in October.