Samsung ATIV S heading to O2 UK, available soon

The Samsung ATIV S in its glory

The Samsung ATIV S is heading to O2 UK, according to the coming soon section of the carrier's website. While no price or dates for availability are provided, it's good to see a UK operator step up and unveil Samsung's latest Windows Phone. Samsung has come under scrutiny by consumers who believe the manufacturer has done little for Windows Phone except release uninspired hardware.

Regardless what one thinks of the company, it's better for the eco-system to have a large brand like Samsung on-board than not at all. Even if the focus is on Android - which is where money is made for Samsung - for Microsoft to have a selection of partners available is good progress, especially for consumers who may prefer Samsung hardware.

Sporting a 4.8" HD Super AMOLED display with GorillaGlass 2, dual-core 1.5Ghz CPU, 2300mAh battery, NFC, DLNA, and with 16GB or 32GB storage (with SD support), it's certainly got a enough power for Windows Phone 8. The design is also unique with a metallic hairline finish and a hardware Windows button.

The Samsung ATIV S is hot, hot, hot

As well as the Samsung ATIV S, O2 UK has also revealed plans to boast two more Windows Phones - the HTC 8X and HTC 8S. It may appear as though networks are almost shy to announce Windows Phones being stocked, but with Windows Phone 8, one could argue more devices are being picked up.

Three UK also plan to stock both HTC Windows Phones, while EE (Everything Everywhere) has chosen the Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 for its 4G LTE launch. O2 will be looking into 4G next year with other major UK networks and by Spring 2013 consumers should be able to take advantage of improvements through new hardware and service upgrades.

Source: O2; thanks, Lance, for the heads up!