After receiving hints about an October launch date, it looks like Microsoft will be launching its much blogged about smartphone less than 30 days from now.

Multiple sources familiar with the matter have confirmed to Pocket-lint that Microsoft will launch its new mobile operating system, Windows Phone 7, on 11 October 2010.

Pocket-lint has learnt that the Redmond-based company will use New York as the global stage for the launch, which will be beamed around the world.

Although none of our sources were prepared to be named, all are senior figures within the industry that we know and trust. (Pocket Lint)

With Apple and Google carving up the mobile landscape all to themselves, Microsoft will have a difficult time matching the success of its rivals (let alone surpassing them).

Unfortunately it looks like Microsoft is making the committing the same mistake as Blackberry by launching the phone on AT&T (who holds exclusive rights to the iPhone in the US).

Unless the company launches with a vibrant app store, Windows 7 Phone may not attract much interest from consumers (even if it does indeed launch with FaceTime).