ZTE is a Chinese manufacturer that claims to be the fastest growing telecom equipment company in the world, and you're as likely to hear about it building WiMAX and 3G networks for operators as supplying handsets (currently only to MetroPCS in the US). The VF 1231 is a budget Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard model for Vodafone which has FCC approval: it’s only an EDGE phone with a  1.3 megapixel camera, although it does have GPS. The other nine phones ZTE is launching this week include CDMA Windows Mobile models for China Telecom, the D810 and D820. Where Microsoft would once have welcomed low-priced Windows Mobile handsets, it now talks about targeting fewer manufacturers to deliver great experiences on top brands. Microsoft may want premium Windows Phones but there’s no shortage of more basic devices coming out. That’s good for your pocketbook but these budget phones won't get the fresh new Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system.