Its a busy time for Microsoft, with recent launches of Windows 8.1 and Surface 2, as well as Xbox One looming ever larger on the horizon. But corporate partners are not slacking either and Huawei, the Chinese handset maker, has today unveiled plans for its European front. On tap is a launch of the company’s new Ascend W2 device within that market, bringing a Lumia-like colorful flare to the platform.
“We’re excited to build on our partnership with Huawei to launch another unique handset that will delight customers around the globe”, said Terry Myerson, executive vice president of Microsoft’s Operating Systems Group.
The W2 follows the W1, and will feature a 4.3-inch 800×480 screen,1.4 GHz dual-core Snapdragon processor, 512 MB RAM, 5 megapixel camera and 8 GB of built-in storage, though it can be expanded thanks to an SD card slot. A 1,700 mAh battery rounds out the spec sheet, and Huawei claims up to 16 days of life in standby mode. Of course, the device also runs Windows Phone 8.
Microsoft’s Michael Stroh points out that “what really sets this phone apart is its catchy design. Besides the four body colors, Huawei also supplies more than 20 Start screen themes to dress things up. Another subtle but nice touch: the three buttons are color backlit to match your theme choice.”
The device is already available in China, and will reach both Russia and the Netherlands this month. Other markets will follow, though release dates have not yet been unveiled, nor has pricing.
