We've brought you the news that the HTC Shift was heading to the UK courtesy of Orange, and the operator has now announced pricing and availability.

Exclusive to Orange, the Shift ("packs the punch of a laptop in a smaller, lighter form factor, with full mobile data connectivity") offers a 7-inch touchscreen and a full QWERTY keyboard.

Offering both Microsoft Windows Mobile and the fuller Microsoft Windows Vista mode the device supports both 3G/3G+ and Wi-Fi connectivity, a first for any Ultra Mobile PC, moving "seamlessly" between networks.

There's instant email access with Microsoft Direct Push technology while the Vista mode enables users to download, view and edit their Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint documents that can be saved down to the 30GB hard drive.

For extra security the Shift has a built-in fingerprint sensor, and there is also USB 2.0 and Bluetooth 2.0 connectivty.

The HTC Shift will be available to buy online and in some Orange retail stores throughout the UK from the end of February. The Shift will be priced at £999 with a data tariff.