Early last month, at CES 2013, we gave you a hands on look at the Huawei Ascend W1. An entry level phone that we expect to do well in emerging markets. At the time we told you that the device should be available here in the US during Q2 on either regional carriers or some MVNOs. Turns out this little device powered by Windows Phone 8 will coming soon to TracFone Wireless, under the Net10 brand of service.
Engadget saw the Ascend W1 sitting around some FCC filings from Huawei, with TracFone branding throughout the documents. Looking at the HSPA frequencies inside and it’s easy to guess that you’ll be able to get it through Net10.
The colorful Ascend W1 would be the first Windows Phone 8 device on Net10 and could do well compared to the relatively bland black and white Android offerings. While you and I probably won’t get too excited about adding the Ascend W1 to our own smartphone lineup, its inexpensive devices like it that will help grow the install base of the Windows Phone ecosystem.
Anybody thinking of picking this budget phone up for themselves or a relative?
