HTC rekindled its close relationship with Microsoft for Windows Phone 8, but recently the Taiwanese phone manufacturer hasn’t really focused on Microsoft’s mobile efforts. That could be about to change. Speaking at a press conference at Computex today, Microsoft’s OEM division head Nick Parker hinted that HTC is preparing to return to Windows Phone. "I'd love to break some news here if I could," said Parker, responding to a question about device partners. "But instead I'll just say that Microsoft will continue to have a great relationship with HTC. New things are coming, so get excited."

HTC expected to launch W8 device on Verizon soon

Microsoft’s hints come just days after @evleaks revealed HTC is preparing to launch a W8 Windows Phone 8.1 device on Verizon in Q3. Little is known about the handset, but it’s claimed that HTC’s BoomSound and Duo cameras will debut on Windows Phone soon too. While HTC launched its One M8 recently with Android, the W8 isn’t likely to be just a Windows Phone variant. Instead, the W8 is reportedly a mid-range handset that could take advantage of Windows Phone 8.1’s new on-screen button support.

Alongside the HTC hints, Parker also revealed a number of Windows Phone 8.1 devices from manufacturers that have recently committed to creating handsets running Microsoft’s software. There was no sign of any Lenovo hardware, but a number of low-cost handsets from Prestigio, InFocus, Yezz, and other device manufacturers were on display. Microsoft is hoping that Windows Phone 8.1 will help broaden the number of handsets in the market to help grow its own app ecosystem and platform.