Microsoft unveils line of Windows phones

(AFP/ERIC PIERMONT)

(AFP) -

Microsoft chief Steve Ballmer on Tuesday unveiled his company's line of Windows smartphones in an offensive against Apple's iPhone and Google's Android system.

Around 30 types of "Windows phones" with various designs will be available by the end of the year in more than 20 countries.

Seven phone-makers, including Sony, Samsung and Toshiba, and 16 operators including Orange, Vodafone and T-Mobile, are involved in the launch.

The phones, which combine the ability to make calls, surf the Internet and view videos, carry Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system.

The new mobile operating system was launched simultaneously in France and New York on Tuesday.

Ballmer presented the Windows phones at Microsoft's new French headquarters near Paris in Issy-les-Moulineaux