Alongside the launch of Windows Mobile 6.6 at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2010, Microsoft is also expected to announce a date for the commercial availability of WM7, according to sources familiar with Microsoft's roadmap.
Based on the roadmap, WM7 will be available to Microsoft's handheld hardware partners in September 2010, allowing them to roll-out WM7-based devices in the fourth quarter 2010 or early first-quarter 2011, the sources indicated.
However, only English and common European languages will be available initially, with the availability of the Asian localizations slated for 2011, said the sources, noting that the late availability of the Asian versions has been interpreted by some market watchers as a delay.
Microsoft has reportedly already selected a number of handset brand vendors, including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Toshiba, HTC (High Tech Computer), Asustek Computer and Acer to co-develop WM7-based products, the sources noted.
WM7 will come with an improved interface to deliver a better browsing and multimedia experience, and support Zune, Xbox Live and Silverlight, the sources revealed.
Recent information leaked from LGE and HTC indicates that the two companies are currently developing WM7-based Apollo and Obsession smartphones, respectively. The companies have declined to confirm the information.
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