Microsoft brings desktop to mobiles with Windows Mobile 6

Stan Beer
Friday, 09 February 2007 03:26

Business IT - Technology

Microsoft has thrown out the challenge to the RIM Blackberry, Palm Treo, upcoming Apple iPhone and other makers of would be smartphone devices with the release of Windows Mobile 6. The new version of Microsoft's cellphone operating system will include a new mobile version of Office.

One of the benefits being touted is that users of Windows Mobile 6, to be avialable in the second quarter, will be able to view files from the desktop versions of Word, Powerpoint, Excel and Outlook on their mobile phones in the original formats.

Phones loaded with Microsoft's new mobile operating system will also have their Outlook data, including emails, contacts and calendars automatically synchronised.

Windows Mobile 6 will also include Windows Live, enabling users to use instant messaging and search facilities.

An additional benefit is that network administrators will be able to clean data off the phones remotely if they're lost or stolen.

With Apple iPhone set to be released by July 1, Microsoft is under pressure to deliver the sort of functionality in mobile devices that users have come to expect on the desktop. Microsoft is hoping that Windows Mobile 6 will be the answer.