A new and easier-to-use interface, faster web browsing, centralized app store, Xbox Live integration and support for Silverlight. Sounds good, right? On the surface, Windows Mobile 7 sounds like it is taking a step in the right direction in the fight against Apple's iPhone, but as details begin to emerge, it's evident that Microsoft is actually taking a step backwards.
Windows Mobile 7 will support Silverlight, but not through the browser. It will also not support Adobe Flash. The new OS will take away the ability to multi-task, replacing it with applications that pause in the background and push notification. Users will also no longer be able to install applications on their phone at their own discretion. All apps will go through a centralized marketplace, similar to the iPhone app store.
There won't be an official Microsoft phone, but Microsoft will have tighter control of the manufacturing process because they will provide all drivers for the device.
It is obvious that Microsoft is hoping to build a bigger and better iPhone, but the way to do that isn't to mimic the features that people complain about most like the lack of Flash, no multi-tasking and inability to install apps other than those approved by Apple. The people that use Windows Mobile and actually like it are the ones that would immediately jailbreak their iPhone, finding Apple's safety net too confining.
No. Windows Mobile 7 won't be the new competition to the iPhone. It is doubtful we'll hear even the most die hard Microsoft enthusiast mutter the phrase "iPhone-killer". On February 15th, when Microsoft is expected to unveil Windows Mobile 7, we're most likely to witness the last ditch effort to grab some form of respect in the mobile world. An effort that seems doomed to failure.
Want to find out more goods on Windows Mobile 7? Both PPCGeeks and MobileTechWorld have some rumored features.
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