• by Gavin O'Malley , Staff Writer @mp_gavin, October 3, 2012

Following Google’s lead, Microsoft is reportedly considering developing a phone of its own.

“The China Times and WPCentral both claim that a device is already being tested at Microsoft’s labs,” The Telegraph writes. 

 “Information has come forward … that demonstrates Microsoft does have their own Windows Phone hardware in the works,” Windows Phone Central reports. “In fact, we’ve heard it already exists and is in testing.”

“Microsoft won't release its own Windows Phone device this year,” reports The Verge citing sources. “Multiple insiders have confirmed there are no plans to introduce a Microsoft-branded Windows Phone device before the end of 2012, but that the company is likely considering it as a ‘Plan B.’

“If you want something done right, do it yourself,” writes VentureBeat. “That seems to be the mantra of Microsoft, which may be working on a Surface-branded smartphone.”

“The other reason Microsoft is interested in doing its own phone is to have a back up plan in case Nokia either goes out of business or fails to deliver Windows Phone sales,” Business Insider suggests.

Putting the reports in context, GigaOm writes: “After Microsoft shocked the PC industry earlier this year with plans to build its own tablet based around Windows 8, persistent rumors have circulated that Microsoft also plans to build its own smartphone, which would throw the ‘special relationship’ between Microsoft and Nokia into a new place.”