Microsoft is tipped to unveil its long-awaited ‘Project Pink’ devices next Monday, although reports are downplaying the company’s move into hardware and suggesting it won’t be on a scale similar to rival Google’s recent efforts. The Redmond-based software giant has invited media to an event April 12, prompting strong speculation that it will be releasing a new line of devices with social networking capabilities aimed at young consumers. Microsoft designed the software, online services and hardware for the Pink mobile phones, reports the Wall Street Journal, whilst Japan’s Sharp manufactured the devices. US operator Verizon is believed to be the initial carrier partner. Reuters claims the devices will be rebranded upon launch, expected sometime this summer. Sharp is also the manufacturer of Microsoft’s Sidekick device, popular with the youth market.

Initial reports of a Microsoft and Verizon tieup on Project Pink first broke a year ago and resurfaced last month. The Wall Street Journal notes that Microsoft “has stopped short of getting as directly involved in mobile phones as Google”, which introduced a smartphone of its own design earlier this year called Nexus One and sells it directly through Google’s website. In fact, Microsoft is believed to be focusing more effort on its upcoming new mobile operating system, Windows Phone 7, which will launch on devices later this year.