BlackBerry maker Research In Motion's much-delayed new smartphones are now being tested by 50 wireless carriers around the world.

Verizon Wireless, the largest cellphone carrier in the U.S., will sell the Lumia 822, which is part of Nokia's lineup of smartphones based on Microsoft's Windows software.

For Nokia, it comes down to this: Is Microsoft's new phone software going to get it back in the smartphone race.

A recent poll discovered that consumers are nonplussed about Microsoft's new operating system, and most have no plans for buying new hardware running Windows 8.

HTC sales have faltered since the second half of 2011 as it struggles to stay competitive with the likes of Apple and Samsung.

The success or failure of Windows 8 will illustrate Microsoft's ability to maintain its prowess in the PC market.

Citing explosive sales of smartphones operating on Android, Windows, and iOS platforms, AT&T reported a net income of $3.64B for the third quarter.

While Microsoft is touting next week's launch of Windows 8 as the savior of the computer industry, PC makers and analysts are skeptical.

Nokia's much-touted Lumia phones, that operate on Microsoft's Windows 8, will go on sale in November and will only be available through AT&T at the outset.