Phone Scoop

Microsoft today announced that Windows Phone 7 has reached the Release To Manufacturers (RTM) milestone. That means Windows Phone 7 is now in its final form as developed by Microsoft and is fully ready for manufacturers to use in handsets. In addition to reaching the RTM marker, Microsoft also explained that it was able to integrate some facets of Facebook into Windows Phone 7. Specifically, users will be able to filter through their contacts for Facebook friends, as well as like items and post to Facebook directly from the People Hub. Microsoft says that the user interface has been refined throughout the operating system, and that a dedicated search button has been added to the contacts application for faster searching. Though some manufacturers have committed to introducing Windows Phone 7 handsets later this year, none have confirmed any specific details about their devices.

T-Mobile has provided a few more details about what will be its first HSPA+ compatible handset. The HTC G2, according to a T-Mobile published web site, has a touch screen, an optical mouse for on-screen navigation, and the standard set of Android shortcut keys. Based on the image published by T-Mobile, the G2 will run the stock version of Android 2.2, and T-Mobile says it has an 800MHz processor, and Flash Player Mobile 10.1. T-Mobile says more information will become available about the G2 in the coming weeks.

According to the Wall Street Journal, T-Mobile USA is in talks with Huawei about the Chinese company's new IDEOS Android smartphone. A source cited by the Journal said that a deal isn't in place yet, but one could be forged within four to six weeks. Huawei developed the Tap touch phone, which was branded and sold by T-Mobile. Huawei has yet to strike a major win with U.S. network operators, and the company confirmed that it is talking to the carriers about distribution deals. The Journal believes the device will be available before the holidays for about $100 on contract. The IDEOS runs Android 2.2, has a 2.8-inch touch screen, camera, Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth.