LG and Sony Ericsson have unveiled devices based on Microsoft’s new Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system (OS), joining HTC in becoming some of the first vendors to back the upgraded software platform. LG’s GM750 (pictured, left) will be available from 6 October (the launch date for version 6.5). In Europe, Vodafone will be the exclusive operator provider until the end of this year, offering the device in Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, the UK and France (through SFR). According to a Reuters report yesterday, LG plans to launch a total of 13 new ‘Windows phones’ (the moniker Microsoft has given devices that run its new 6.5 OS) globally by end-2010. LG’s commitment to Windows follows a deal between the South Korean vendor and Microsoft earlier this year under which Windows Mobile is expected to become LG’s primary smartphone platform. Meanwhile, Sony Ericsson on Wednesday unveiled the XPERIA X2 (pictured, right), an HSPA device due to go on sale next month in selected markets. Also this week Taiwanese vendor HTC said its new Touch2 device will support Windows Mobile 6.5 upon launch in October.

As well as LG, HTC and Sony Ericsson, other manufacturers due to support the new Windows Mobile OS include Samsung, Acer and Toshiba. Despite huge success in the PC space, Microsoft has experienced difficulties in the mobile OS market. However, the company is determined to improve. Version 7 of the platform – reported to be a complete reworking of the OS – is expected to commercially launch next year. As reported earlier this week, initial reaction to the release of version 6.5 has not been without criticism.