Windows Phone 7 handsets have officially hit the market in Australia, and there’s a range of phones and carriers to choose from. Planhacker rounds up what’s on offer.
Picture by yum9me
I was reasonably impressed with Windows Phone 7 when I tried it out, but whether it will meet every user’s needs is a more open question. One important factor is applications, and the number of those is likely to increase markedly in the next few weeks following the US launch of the platform. (Yes, Australia got some new hardware first for once.)
While Microsoft gave pride of place to Telstra at its Windows Phone 7 launch, there are models on offer on each of Australia’s major networks (Telstra, Optus and Vodafone/3). Indeed, given that most carriers currently have an exclusive deal for the models they’re selling, your ability to choose is a tad restricted.
If (for example) you’re in an area where Next G is the best mobile option, then you’re stuck with the Telstra choices. If you absolutely have to have a Trophy, you’ll need to either go Vodafone or negotiate an outright buy price. Vodafone is the only provider with 12 month contracts, so that’s also something to consider.
Compared to Android devices, Windows Phone 7 models are pretty similar. In part, that’s because Microsoft doesn’t allow customisation of the phone interface, but in part it seems to reflect a lack of imagination by hardware designers. Telstra will soon be selling the LG Optimus 7Q, and next year we’ll see the HTC HD7.
Here’s the table; click on the image for a larger version.
If you want the specifications for a particular model, Nick at Gizmodo has neatly rounded up all the local options.
For full details of the plans from each carrier, hit the company links below:
- Telstra
- Optus
- Vodafone
Know of a Windows Phone 7 deal that we’ve missed? Want something more from Windows Phone 7 before you commit? Tell us in the comments.
Lifehacker’s weekly Planhacker column rounds up the best communication deals.
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