As we reported a few days ago, the much anticipated Mango update to Windows Phone 7 has been released in Beta mode. Developers and coders have had a chance to play with the software, overcoming the challenge of finding hardware capable of running Microsoft's latest version of their portable operating system.
One of the handsets seen running Mango is the HTC D2 (AKA Leo), which is currently on Windows Mobile version 6.5. HTC will be pleased that their handset is able to take Mango and the update may reinvigorate interest in the D2 whether Mango officially hits it at some point or ports/hacks are leaked online. It's yet another sign that HTC are at the top of their game, not just with Android but with Windows mobile too.
Experts expect many more Windows Phone running handsets to be seen running Beta versions of Mango in the next few weeks and months so long as they meet the minimum hardware configuration of; a Qualcomm Snapdragon SoC clocked at 1GHz, 512MB memory, 8GB onboard storage, rear camera and a WVGA capacitive touchcreen.
As well as the D2, other handsets have been seen Mango'ed including an Asus prototype and the HTC Mazza. HD7 has been seen loaded with Mango on YouTube and many believe that developers have been handed HD7s by Microsoft in order to put the latest OS through its paces.
Early feedback to Mango has been positive and many expect the OS to boost Microsoft's power in the smartphone market. We're all holding our breath, especially Nokia.