iPhone-Fighting Microsoft Handset Coming to Verizon?

Even if Verizon (NYSE: VZ) doesn’t win Apple (NSDQ: AAPL)’s affections for their upcoming devices, word has it Microsoft (NSDQ: MSFT) is attempting to woo America’s biggest carrier. A Windows Mobile device, still bearing the codename Pink, will have all the latest fixings from 6.5, including the Microsoft Marketplace and apparently extending current software, but branding is still up in the air since Microsoft is leaving device manufacturing to a third party, possibly Sidekick creator Danger. The most likely candidate for naming is Zune HD, considering recent advertising leaks, but working with Verizon and incorporating Windows Mobile would suggest a significant change in your traditional Zune experience. We’ll have to wait for Microsoft to play their hand, but they really better bring their A-game if they want to play music-centric smartphone hardball with Apple.

[via WSJ, pic]