Microsoft Enters Mobile Market with Windows Mobile 6.5

Microsoft has launched a new line of mobile phones in partnership with major manufacturers and carriers, aiming to compete with the Apple iPhone and BlackBerry from Research in Motion. The new Windows Mobile 6.5 software-powered devices will be available in over 20 countries by the end of the year, with over 30 new devices in the market. These phones will feature music playback, document editing, and internet synchronization capabilities.

Key Takeaways:

• Microsoft is partnering with Samsung, AT&T, and Vodafone to launch its new mobile phones.
• The company aims to challenge Apple and Research in Motion in the mobile phone market.
• Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.5 software will be available on over 30 new devices in more than 20 countries by the end of the year.
• The new phones will feature music playback, document editing, and internet synchronization capabilities.
• Steve Ballmer, Microsoft's Chief Executive, has played down rumors of the company developing its own smartphone.
• The market for phones is expected to triple or quadruple in the next few years, according to Ballmer.
• Microsoft's Windows Mobile will be neck and neck with Apple's mobile market share, according to Ballmer.
• Microsoft has announced a new online application store with 246 available applications.
• Nokia and Research in Motion are the two other major players in the smartphone market, according to Ballmer.

Statistics:

• More than 30 new devices will be available in the market with Windows Mobile 6.5 software.
• Devices will be available in over 20 countries by the end of the year.
• 246 applications will be available for download from Microsoft's new online application store.
• The market for phones is expected to triple or quadruple in the next few years.

Sources:

• "Microsoft makes mobile phone debut" - Jordan Press & Publishing Co.
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