Vodafone commits to Windows Phone 8 with launch of five Nokia and HTC smartphones on February 6

Telecommunications company Vodafone has announced today that it will be offering some of its first Windows Phone 8 devices in the UK from February 6. The “army” of devices that will be available both online and in physical stores include the Nokia Lumia 920, 820 and 620, as well as the HTC 8X and 8S.

Vodafone confirmed some of these devices in a blog post published in October last year, following Microsoft’s initial unveiling of the Windows Phone 8 operating system. The Nokia Lumia 920, arguably the flagship device for Windows Phone 8 users, was later confirmed in December.

The Nokia Lumia 920, alongside the HTC 8X, means that Vodafone has plenty to offer users on the high-end. The HTC 8X offers a slimmer form factor, more attractive bezel and lighter overall weight – but the Lumia 920 still has the advantage of exclusive software such as Nokia Maps and Nokia City Lens. Together, they should offer a good balance for the UK network operator.

In fact, Vodafone has hit pretty much all pricing tiers here, although the absence of the Samsung Ativ S has been duly noted. The device features some fairly impressive technical specifications, including a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED HD screen and 2300 mAH battery, but it’s failed to spark the imagination of both consumers and carriers due to its unimaginative software and traditional hardware aesthetics.

Rival carrier Three is already stocking the HTC 8X and 8S, as well as the Nokia Lumia 920 and 620. Meanwhile, 02 stocks the HTC 8X, 8S, Nokia Lumia 820, as well as the aforementioned Samsung Ativ S. The first 4G network operator in the UK, EE, is offering only the Lumia 920 and 820.