Microsoft is still working to finalise the Windows Phone 8 software and has had to delay the launch of phones running the new OS, The Verge reported. Sources familiar with the matter said that Microsoft had originally planned to launch Windows Phone 8 in early October, ahead of the launch of Windows 8. Microsoft is now targeting a 29 October software launch event with devices available throughout November, a slight delay to its original schedule.
Delays and bugs during testing have pushed back the launch of the software and associated devices by weeks. HTC in particular has reportedly had a tough time testing one of its Windows Phone 8 devices, leading to a delay in announcing the model. The report said Microsoft has been working closely with US carriers to ensure testing times are reduced. In some cases carriers may ship devices without any of the usual customizations, to reduce test times and ensure a November launch schedule.
Microsoft is expected to sign off on a final version as early as this week, but it has instructed Samsung, Nokia and HTC not to show off the operating system. At Samsung and Nokia's recent launch events, the phones were not available for trying out the operating software.
