HTC reveals cut-price One M8 Windows Phone device

The handset maker HTC has unveiled a new smartphone that runs a Windows Phone operating system.

The modified One M8 is priced at $99 (£60), roughly half the amount of the same handset running Google's Android.

This is the first time the struggling manufacturer has released a Windows smartphone in more than two years.

One analyst said the new device was "almost certainly financially supported" by Microsoft, in an attempt to gain a foothold in the US market.

The new phone, which comes with Windows Phone 8.1 pre-installed, is available exclusively through US network provider Verizon.

"Consumers love the HTC One M8 and today's introduction extends that enthusiasm to new audiences hungry for choice in their mobile experience," said Jason Mackenzie, president of HTC Americas.

He added: "Microsoft shares our vision, and that's why we committed to bringing the Windows Phone platform to the HTC One M8."