Verizon stores receiving cases for the HTC Thunderbolt

The last time we reported on the HTC Thunderbolt, there was talk that the launch was going to be delayed. And while that still might be the case, shipments of protective cases for the handset are now beginning to make it to the carrier's stores. While that doesn't give us the long-desired launch date for the first Verizon 4G phone, it does tell us to expect the HTC Thunderbolt to be available soon.

Right now, Verizon has its hands full with the launch of the Apple iPhone 4, but as soon as the initial glow fades, you can expect to see Big Red turn its attention to the Thunderbolt and its LTE network. Because an iPhone buyer is different than the customer interested in the HTC device, we could see some overlap in advertising. After all, Verizon needs to catch up to Sprint and T-Mobile by offering a phone that will work on its 4G pipelines. And now that the cases are being received, keep an eye out for some window displays and other in-store signs featuring the HTC Thunderbolt at your local Verizon store. Once you see that, Verizon's first 4G phone will be right around the corner.

Thanks Alex!