Looking for a foothold in the smartphone market, in which Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android handsets are currently ruling the roost, Microsoft is all set to officially launch its Windows Phone 7 mobile operating platform later this year.

The slick, smooth and appealing Windows Phone 7 boasts the incorporation of some compelling features that Microsoft has apparently picked from its rivals – while the OS is simple and easy-to-use like the iOS; it also has the social networking capabilities of Android. In addition, the user interface of the Windows Phone 7 has also been made as quick and uncomplicated as the iPhone.

Furthermore, since Microsoft has also apparently been very particular about the functionalities of the Windows Phone 7 as well as the hardware the new OS will support, any smartphone that runs Windows Phone 7 will require at least 8GB of memory; 5-megapixel camera; GPS; and an accelerometer; and some other specific features.

Another striking feature of the Windows Phone 7 is that almost all the applications and software on handsets based on this OS will be cloud-connected; and there will be a continual updating of the users’ contacts, photos and home screens.

In an attempt to make the new OS attractive not only for consumers but for the business class as well, Microsoft has equipped it with a tool called ‘The Office integration’, which will enable users to edit any text, which has been type by them on a computer, on their smartphone.