Rumour: Windows Phone 7 handsets to hit retail on October 21

by Steven Mostyn - Sep 27 2010, 13:01

It's been a long time coming but, if rumours circulating on the Net are to be believed, mobile handsets powered by Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 platform will begin to hit the market in the latter part of next month.

Citing “sources familiar with the software giant's plans,” technology blog Neowin has claimed Microsoft will hold a specific showcase event in New York on October 11, before then holding a number of official launch events around the world on October 21.

“Devices will hit retail shelves on October 21 in the UK, France Germany, Italy and Spain,” outlines the site. “Neowin is unable to verify whether devices will be available in the United States on October 21.”

In a move to further boost public awareness ahead of the arrival of Windows Phone 7, the report also states that Microsoft is to partner with “a big London based radio station” in order to promote the new operating platform across the UK – while heavyweight handset carrier Orange is expected to be a major launch partner.

Padding out the rumour even more, Engadget reports that “Microsoft expert” Paul Thurrott has said the missing launch date for the U.S. market is November 8. However, contrary to Neowin's angle, Thurrott insists the October 11 showcase has nothing to do with Windows Phone 7.

In offering its official response to the mounting rumours, Microsoft has confirmed the October 11 event but refused to either confirm or deny whether Windows Phone 7 will be its focus. With regard to the offered launch dates, a spokesman would only say “we have nothing to share at this time.”

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