Motorola unveils Microsoft-powered phones

Motorola has added two new Microsoft-powered phones to its range.

The new models are the MPx clamshell phone/PDA and MPx100 in a more classic form factor.

The MPx's clamshell design claims a first in phone design, with the device opening out to show a large screen and Qwerty keyboard. It also has a hinge on the side so it can be used in landscape or portrait mode.

The more traditional-style MPx100 offers triband, Bluetooth and Secure Digital memory card port. It will also come with a Wi-Fi add-on to allow access to corporate networks.

"We believe intelligent products can unleash personal potential and ignite whole new possibilities," said Ed Zander, chairman and chief executive officer of Motorola.

Although operators have agreed to carry the phones, which will be available in the second half of the year, Motorola has yet to supply details.

"Microsoft for Motorola has been an interesting strategic move," said Ben Wood, principle analyst for Gartner.

"When you're a tier-one player as they are, Motorola could have stayed in a Nokia-influenced Symbian or gone to Microsoft. They've gone to Microsoft to offer an alternative to Symbian in the corporate market.

"It's a safe bet; Microsoft has significant strength in the enterprise sphere."