Microsoft has announced on its Windows Phone 7 blog that the operating system has reached the technical preview milestone, with the operating system reaching the necessary level of development for third-parties to begin development of applications before the launch of the operating system, now slated for October.
To that end, Microsoft has begun shipping out reference hardware to developers interested in developing applications for Windows Phone 7 in time for its launch from its hardware partners in LG, Samsung and Asus with the goal to encourage developer feedback on necessary refinements and features, with 1,000 Microsoft employees helping to contribute to the development of the technical preview.
Microsoft has also stated that the technical preview in its current form can be used by consumers for everyday use, with the aim of using constant feedback for shaping the final version of the operating system.
