Windows Phone 7 to launch on October 11?

Microsoft is expected to kick start the launch of Windows Phone 7 devices at a New York launch event on October 11, according to reports.

UK tech blog Pocket Lint reports that the software giant will hold a lavish launch party in New York city on October 11. The date is exactly a week after Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is due to hold a "special event" in London regarding Windows Phone 7.

Microsoft COO, Kevin Turner, originally revealed Microsoft's launch plans in early August. Turner confirmed that Windows Phone 7 devices would be available in October for Europe and November for the United States. Asus, Dell, HTC, LG, and Samsung are all expected to launch devices on Windows Phone 7. Several recent FCC filings have revealed a number of HTC Windows Phone 7 devices, a Samsung device and an ASUS device - all expected to arrive at the end of October. Pocket-lint's report confirms the launch will be a soft one, meaning devices will be available later in October.

Microsoft recently released the final build of Windows Phone 7 to manufacturing and claimed the company is "ready". Terry Myerson, Microsoft's Corporate Vice President of Windows Phone engineering said the company is just getting started. "This has been one of the most incredible product development efforts I’ve ever been a part of" said Myerson. Microsoft also published a Windows Phone 7 'advert' earlier this week with the tagline "the revolution is coming".

Neowin is not able to immediately verify the launch date. Microsoft officials refused to comment on the date, stating: "We do not comment on rumour or speculation".