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In Taiwan Microsoft's biggest partner for the Windows Mobile platform HTC is preparing to launch a new Google Android offering with insiders telling ChannelNews and Smarthouse that the new Google offering is a better operating system and the availability of applications in the same way that iPhone users can access applications is appealing.

Reuters claim that the Sony  X1, which will be the premium phone in Sony Ericsson's portfolio when it starts shipping later this month, is Sony Ericsson's first smartphone powered by Windows Mobile and was seen as boosting Microsoft's presence in the smartphone market.

But the loss-making joint venture of Japan's Sony and Sweden's Ericsson was reluctant on Monday to reveal any details of future models that may be launched under the Xperia brand, of which the X1 is the first.

"The brand is not tied into any specific technical platform," said Magnus Andersson, product manager for the X1.

Asked how much pressure Xperia was under, given Sony Ericsson's shrinking range of must-have products, Andersson said: "I think there is a lot of hope riding on everything Sony Ericsson does."

The X1 is Sony Ericsson's most advanced smartphone, offering fast uploads to the Internet as well as fast downloads -- where suitable networks are available -- and combining a touch screen with a slide-out keyboard.

It also allows up to nine applications -- such as email, video or Internet browsing -- to run simultaneously.

For  more information see Reuters at REUTERS