REDMOND, Wash.-Microsoft Corp.’s entry into the smart-phone market continues to gain steam, with European carrier Orange and Asian manufacturer MiTAC International Corp. offering glimpses at potential upcoming products using the software giant’s mobile-phone platform.
An Orange France Web site appeared to offer details on a new version of the carrier’s SPV smart phone, which uses Microsoft’s Smartphone 2002 operating system. According to the Web site, the phone will feature Bluetooth support, Java version 2.0 and an integrated digital camera. Orange officials weren’t immediately available for comment, although the carrier has said it will upgrade its SPV offering.
Separately, MiTAC showed off its Mio8380 on its Web site, promising to ship the device in Europe at the end of the third quarter. The flip-phone device also features Bluetooth, Java and an integrated digital camera. MiTAC’s offering is notable as it joins High Tech Computer Corp. and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. in manufacturing Microsoft smart phones.
