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Windows Phone 7 launch detailed

MS: They're “amazing game machines.”

Microsoft has announced a 21st October launch date for its new Xbox Live-friendly Windows Phone 7 operating system.

The new OS will let you access a number of Xbox Live features through the handset, including your avatar, achievements and friends list.

Titles available through Microsoft's App Store-esque Games Hub will all have Live functionality.

GamesIndustry.biz reported that EA was present at the unveiling in New York and announced it was bringing Need For Speed Undercover, The Sims 3 and Tetris to the platform.

Other titles already confirmed for the phone include Crackdown, Assassin's Creed, Halo Waypoint, Castlevania, Earthworm Jim, Puzzle Quest 2, Guitar Hero and De Blob Revolution.

Travis Boatman, vice president of Worldwide Studios for EA Mobile claimed, "We see consumers deeply integrating devices into their lives and entertainment in new ways every day. Challenging your Xbox Live friends to an EA game from the phone in your pocket keeps you connected and having fun no matter where you are."

Joe Belfiore, corporate vice president for Microsoft's Windows Phone Program added, "These phones are going to be amazing game machines."

The first wave of Windows Phone 7-friendly handsets include the HTC HD7, HTC 7 Mozart, Samsung OMNIA 7, HTC 7 Trophy and LG Optimus 7. O2, Orange and Vodafone are your providers.