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Microsoft makes 'big' splash with giant Windows Phone (photos)

As part of Microsoft's Windows Phone push, the company holds an informal event with press and erects a giant Windows Phone smartphone over Herald Square in Manhattan.

Roger Cheng

Nov. 7, 2011 10:52 a.m. PT

Roger Cheng

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1 of 8 Roger Cheng/CNET

Giant Windows Phone

A giant Windows Phone smartphone--150 times the size of a normal handset--shares the skyline with other notable Manhattan landmarks.

2 of 8 Roger Cheng/CNET

"Backstage" event

Earlier in the morning, Microsoft holds a "backstage" event featuring an informal chat with the architects of Windows Phone. There was no news; executives are on hand to share their thoughts on the future of the platform.

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Andy Lees answers questions

Windows Phone President Andy Lees makes a short speech to kick off the event, and spends a majority of his time taking questions from eager reporters, bloggers, and analysts.

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Live tiles of actual device

The giant Windows Phone featured the live tiles of the actual devices.

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Windows Phone exhibit

By the giant phone is an exhibit showing off the latest Windows Phone products.

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Pizza!

As part of the promotion, people who got a Windows Phone demo also got a free slice of pizza from Ray's. The giant phone actually "dialed" Ray's for delivery.

7 of 8 Roger Cheng/CNET

Plant and zombie invasion

Actors dressed up in "Plants vs. Zombies" outfits prepare to run in front of the phone to simulate an attack. Microsoft is trying to highlight the game options available on Windows Phone.