Microsoft unveiled Windows Phone 8 today and what we can all expect to see in the latest hardware from OEM partners. So when will we be able to get our hands on such devices here in the UK? HTC and Nokia have both sent us press releases detailing what's going where.
First off is HTC with the 8X and 8S Windows Phones that will both be available for pre-order right this very second, with expected in-store availability from November 2nd with selected partners. HTC announced both handsets last month, and billed both as 'signature' Windows Phones.
Phil Roberson, UK & Ireland Executive Director of HTC, had the following to say:
"It’s fantastic to see the excitement surrounding our Windows Phone 8 devices. This is the first time HTC Windows Phone device have had full UK distribution. The level of interest is a testament to our deliberate Windows Phone design strategy and the inclusion of HTC’s iconic feature set."
Sporting Beats Audio, HTC hopes its claimed higher sound volume and quality will push out more Windows Phones. Partners who will be stocking both the 8X and 8S include Three, Orange, T-Mobile, O2, Virgin Media, Carphone Warehouse, Phones4u, Brightpoint and Brightstar Tech Data. Be sure to check out early hands-on action with the 8X.
Phones4u's extensive Windows Phone lineup
As for Nokia, both the Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 will also be found in-store at selected partners starting this week, and as far as we know the handsets will be available at Phones4u, Carphone Warehouse (820 only), EE (4G exclusivity), and possibly O2 (820 only).
The Lumia hardware have a slight advantage on EE with the carrier launching the first UK 4G LTE network, but we've noticed that prices for plans have appeared to be slightly on the expensive side.
As for the Samsung ATIV S, it'll be stocked at Phones4u, O2, as well as various retailers. Developing...
