Microsoft Unveils New Line of Smartphones

Hugh Collins
Updated

Software giant Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) unveiled a new line of Windows-based smartphones today -- the latest attempt made by a rival to challenge Apple's iPhone.

The new phones, from handset makers including Samsung (SSNHY), LG (LGLD) and HTC (HTCXF), will be available with AT&T (T) coverage starting next month, Reuters reported.

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The new phone will resemble Apple's (AAPL) iPhone, with a touch screen and colored tiles to let users access services like e-mail and music.

Microsoft, the world's largest software maker, has just 5% of the smartphone market, compared with 17% for Google's (GOOG) Android platform.

Worldwide sales of smartphones will rise 56% in 2010, according to research company Gartner. Sales of personal computers are expected to rise 19%.

Earlier this year, Microsoft pulled its Kin phone less than three months after the launch. The Kin was aimed at teenagers.

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