AT&T Introduces its First Windows Phone 7 Models: HTC Surround, Samsung Focus

AT&T has just launched two smartphones running Microsoft's latest operating system. The HTC Surround and Samsung Focus are both high-end models with large touchscreens, fast processors, and many other features.

Today is the premier of Windows Phone 7 in the U.S., and AT&T and T-Mobile are each introducing two models with this new OS.

The Samsung Focus has a tablet shape dominated by a 4-inch, AM-OLED touchscreen.

The HTC Surround, on the other hand, has a 3.8-inch display and an unusual addition: a panel that can slide to expose a pair of Dolby Surround Sound speakers. 

Both of these smartphones have a cutting-edge feature set, including WVGA, capacitive touchscreens, 3G, Wi-Fi, and 1 GHz processors.

They also have the same price: $200 with a two-year wireless service contract.

Either can be ordered now on the AT&T website.

Waiting in the Wings
This carrier is planning to release a third device running Windows Phone 7, but the LG Quantum is missing the big launch day.

This will be AT&T's only Windows Phone 7 model with a landscape oriented keyboard. It is also going to include a 3.5-inch touchscreen.

It can be pre-ordered now for $200 with contract, and is scheduled to ship "on or about November 15".

Microsoft Windows Phone 7 Preview
Despite its name, Windows Phone 7 has little in common with its predecessors. It has a completely different user interface and can't run applications written for Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5 or before.

Its focus has mostly moved to consumers, and its new UI emphasizes social networking, pictures, multimedia, games, etc. It has also been redesigned to be controlled with a fingertip.

Still, it includes some hold-overs from Windows Mobile that business users want: Microsoft Office Mobile and support for synchronizing with Microsoft Exchange.

It works with Microsoft's Zune music service, as well as the Xbox Live gaming service.