Windows Phone 7.8 is the next version of Microsoft's previous Windows Phone 7 mobile operating system. The update is scheduled for an early 2013, but it appears China is up for getting the new update earlier than anticipated.

The Vice President of Microsoft in Greater China is not one to shy away from words - the man has been speaking up about Windows Phone 7.8 and Windows Phone 8 among other things.

According to the Vice President, Windows Phone 7.8 is scheduled to hit China in the coming weeks, making it clear that the Chinese will be the first to explore the innards of Windows Phone 7.8 before everyone else. This is good news for early adopters in China who are unable to purchase a new Windows Phone 8 device. The update isn't much, it is not able to pull off all the tricks Windows Phone 8 is able to. However, it should be enough to keep early adopters interested until Windows Phone 8 devices become more affordable.

When it comes to Windows Phone 8 devices launch in China, expect to see them everywhere in the early part of December. Phones from Nokia, Samsung, HTC and Huawei are already being prepared for launch; all devices will be localized to China and will feature Chinese voice recognition. Those looking to import the Nokia Lumia 920T might have a problem here if they are unable to speak Chinese.

More importantly, other Windows Phone OEMs will come onboard in 2013. So far, only 3 OEMs have supported Windows Phone in 2012, and good news for Microsoft that others are coming with handsets in 2013. OEMs launching Windows Phone 8 devices next year will have much work to do if they stand any chance at topping what is available now.