Microsoft's Zune Multimedia Software to Boost Windows Mobile

Microsoft is reportedly close to integrating its popular Zune multimedia software into Windows Mobile, a move that could help the software maker regain ground in the increasingly competitive smartphone market. The move comes as Windows Mobile is rapidly losing market share to rivals Apple, Research In Motion, and Symbian. While Windows Mobile devices are capable of playing audio and video files, the experience is not as smooth as the iPhone's media capabilities. With the addition of Zune software, Windows Mobile devices could become a more attractive option for users seeking a seamless multimedia experience.

Key Takeaways:

Microsoft is close to integrating its Zune multimedia software into Windows Mobile, which could help the software maker regain ground in the smartphone market.
Windows Mobile has lost market share to rivals Apple, Research In Motion, and Symbian, and is expected to face further competition from newcomers like Android and webOS.
The integration of Zune software into Windows Mobile could make the operating system a more attractive option for users seeking a seamless multimedia experience.
The Zune software was praised for its user experience and software in its last version, and its integration into Windows Mobile could help the platform close the gap with rivals.
Microsoft is expected to release a software upgrade for Windows Mobile in the second half of the year, but massive Zune synergy is likely to wait until Windows Mobile 7, expected to be released in 2010.

Statistics:

Windows Mobile has more than 12% of the smartphone market.
The operating system is rapidly losing market share to rivals, with 22% drop in market share in the last year.
Android and webOS are expected to poach away customers from Microsoft's mobile platform.
The Zune software has not come close to dethroning the iPod in the digital music player space.
The Zune's software and user experience were widely praised by users.

Sources:

AdWeek