Microsoft has completed the acquisition of Nokia’s devices and services division, and is reportedly working on a number of new handsets which will debut later this year. According to a new report from The Verge, citing sources familiar with the company’s plans, Microsoft is readying a new device, codenamed Superman, which will come with a 5MP front-facing camera.
The report describes the handset as a mid-range device which will come with a 4.7-inch display, and will hit retail by the end of this year. It also suggests the Redmond-based company will launch two Windows Phone 8.1 updates this year, one will launch in June while the second one will roll out alongside Nokia Superman. It makes sense for the company to manufacture a smartphone featuring a decent 5MP camera, since it already made its way to the HTC One M8 as the selfies culture is gaining popularity.
It’s not just Nokia Superman, Microsoft is working on two more Windows Phone 8.1 powered handsets for this year, but the details about those are scarce at the moment. Nokia Goldfinger is also under testing, and will hit retail by the holiday season, rumored to come with 3D gestures and more.
As far as the branding is concerned, an earlier report suggested Microsoft will continue to use Nokia as the brand name for the upcoming devices for some time, and will transition it a little slowly to Microsoft Mobile. It seems 2014 is going to be an action-packed year for Microsoft and Windows Phone. We’ll keep you updated with all the latest happenings as soon as they take place.
Further reading: Nokia, Windows Phone
