The HTC M7, the next flagship Android handset from the maker of the Droid DNA, is expected to go on sale in the United States on March 8 — just over two weeks after its rumored press event on February 19. It’s currently unclear which carriers will offer it, but the device is expected to come in black and white, according to a source familiar with HTC’s plans.

Like a lot of HTC handsets, the M7 has been leaked a number of times before its official unveiling. First we heard all about its specifications from different sources, and then we even saw pictures of the handset out in the wild running HTC’s next-generation Sense 5 user interface.

In fact, the only thing we don’t know about the handset at this point is its real name. But we do have a rumored release date of March 8, thanks to a source for HTC Source, who has also said that it’s possible the M7 will show its face in Europe before service providers begin stocking their shelves in the U.S.

Whatever the case may be, it appears the M7 is right around the corner, and we shouldn’t have to wait too long for HTC’s announcement. A recent report claimed that the device will not get its first public appearance at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona later this month, but would be treated to its own press event the week before instead.

The device is expected to come in black and white & silver, according to the source.

HTC Source has also reported that HTC is working to secure enough components for 4-5 million M7 units for the first quarter of 2013. It’s thought the company is trying to get the device out of the gate as soon as possible to give it a 2-3 month sales advantage over Samsung’s next flagship, the Galaxy S IV.

• SourceHTC Source