Reports and sources have speculated that Verizon Wireless, which is presently the largest wireless carrier in the US, will be releasing two phones from Microsoft Corp., a development expected to take place in May or June. The new devices will be targeted specifically at teenagers.

Reports are that the Microsoft phones will allow easy access to social-networking websites and also include keyboards for text messaging. The new devices will be manufactured by Sharp Corp. and carry the brands of Microsoft and Verizon.

Till now, Microsoft has focused primarily on providing manufacturers of mobile handsets with its Windows Mobile operating system, rather than releasing a model under its own brand name.

The development would echo Google's move of releasing its very own Nexus One phone, which came after the company provided its Android operating system to different manufacturers.