uSwitch.com - Windows Phone 7

uSwitch.com comments on today's release of the brand new Windows Phone 7 operating system, now available to consumers on five different handsets.

Ernest Doku, communications expert at uSwitch.com, says: "Windows Phone 7 is an impressive and robust mobile platform. Microsoft has revamped its original operating system with one that is vastly more intuitive, gorgeous in its simplicity and aimed squarely at the consumer. It also offers strong integration of media and gaming through Zune and Xbox Live.

"All the phones from the big manufacturers, including HTC and Samsung, have exclusive features - customized widgets, augmented reality applications and everything in between. But the core Windows Phone 7 experience stays the same across the entire range of devices in this first wave.

"Microsoft and Google are two giants entering the smartphone arena with completely different battle tactics, so it will be interesting to see which will win out. Microsoft is attempting to stamp a common feel across all Windows Phone 7 handsets for consumers to grow accustomed to; Google's Android, on the other hand, is a platform that has changed beyond all recognition since launch and its customers will testify that it is constantly evolving.

"There's no doubt that, with Windows Phone 7, Microsoft is making a concerted bid for the casual smartphone owner, although it remains to be seen whether they have done enough to tempt many away from the charms of BlackBerry and Android devices, let alone challenge the dominance of Apple and the iPhone.

"One thing is certain though - Windows Phone 7 finally banishes the ghosts of the old Windows Mobile - fiddly stylus and all - and puts Microsoft firmly back in the smartphone race."