Windows Phone 7 To Hit Europe In October, U.S. In November

After Microsoft's Kin project failed miserably, more and more pressure is being put on Windows Phone 7 to bring the company back into the smartphone game. Although the upcoming mobile OS has gotten a fair share of positive reports, one key question that remains is when we'll actually see the OS in action for ourselves. Microsoft has not given a definite timeframe as to when the phones will actually ship. That is, until now.

During a recent presentation, Microsoft Chief Operating Officer Kevin Turner let information about the release of Windows Phone 7 slip. Turner said, "Now let's talk about phones.  This has been tough.  This is a lowlight.  For me, the company -- it's tough.  But you know what?  In the October timeframe, in the November timeframe -- in October likely across Europe, in November likely across the U.S. -- the game... we're back in the game.  And this game is not over."

Turner's comments may surprise some, as Europe typically isn't the first place for phones to launch. More often, Japan or the U.S. will get tech products before Europe. Additionally, Microsoft's relationship with the EU has been rocky. In 2008, the EU nailed Microsoft with an unprecedented $1.4B USD fine for antitrust violations.