Microsoft launches mobile handset 'Kin'

Software giant Microsoft on Tuesday unveiled its first mobile handset Kin, designed specifically for users who are actively accessing social networking sites.

The Kin handsets, which would be available in two models, -- Kin One and Kin Two -- are designed for consumers who want access to social networking sites and videos from their mobile phones, Microsoft said in a statement.

Both phones are touch screen, have slide-out keyboard and based on mobile software platform Windows Mobile. Besides, Kin One is small and compact and having five megapixel camera, while Two has a larger screen and keyboard, more memory, a higher resolution camera of 8 megapixel and the ability to record high-definition video.

"We built Kin for people who live to be connected, share, express and relate to their friends and family. This social generation wants and needs more from their phone," Microsoft President, Entertainment and Devices Division, Robbie Bach said. The Kin handsets are made by Japan's Sharp Corp and would be sold by Verizon Wireless, a joint venture between Verizon Communications Inc and Vodafone Group Plc.

It would be available in the US from May and in European countries like Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK from this autumn.