We aren’t very sure if Microsoft is serious about a new version of the Windows Mobile, considering the recent downturn in the usage of its OS on smartphones. Yet, the rumor about the release of the Mobile OS version 7 next year is too delicious to let go. We hear from Microsoft partners that the company would go ahead with the development of this OS and release it in 2009. CNET
Watch This: Spy caps of the mobile OS may have surfaced, but we’d prefer to wait till Microsoft decides to give us a confirmation about the release and an overview of its key features. Even if it does, we doubt if it would make a world of difference to the smartphone space. However, if the rumor is indeed true, the Vista-like UI may still pack enough to revive Microsoft’s mobile OS fortunes, we presume.
Word around the Web:
Brad Linder from Downloadsquad says:
The news comes from Microsoft partners, not the company itself. But a delay could seriously hurt Microsoft’s mobile market share. The company faces increasing competition from Apple, Google, and Research in Motion.
Mitchell Ashley from Networkworld says:
With many features dubbed “iPhone compete”, WM7 is all about effective uses of the touch screen, finger gestures, and additional motion gestures.
Manufacturer’s Voice: Steve Balmer had spoken about the Windows Mobile 7 in a public speech delivered to enthusiasts early this year. Although a reference was made, he hadn’t explicitly stated when the OS would be released and what features it would incorporate. However, since there was a mention, we are strongly convinced that WM 7 might make it in 2009 after all.
