Microsoft had to react. The software giant has lost market share against the iPhone in particular. The steamroller Apple has crushed its competitors and now has a comfortable lead in terms of functionality, although still behind Nokia and RIM (Blackberry) in number of units sold.
With the launch of Windows Mobile 6.5, the new version of its operating system for mobile phone, Microsoft hopes to regain some of its customers disappointed by the older 6.1. The interface rusty and complex of the latter, combined with delays sometimes exasperating, earned him a bad press. To mark the return of Windows Mobile, the CEO of Microsoft, Steve Ballmer, said Tuesday the trip to Paris. The opportunity to dedicate a new brand, Windows Phone, which encompasses all phones equipped with a version of the operating system Windows Mobile.
Available from Wednesday
The new version 6.5 includes many changes. As Windows 7 for the PC, it has attracted the early testers and should be welcomed by the general public. Responsiveness improved ergonomics fully reviewed, functions adapted to new uses: Microsoft wants to hit hard. The new Start menu, honeycomb, will please those who railed against the pull-down menus. A store of applications, MarketPlace, modeled on the App Store from Apple, finally makes its appearance. Sharing files, a feature strategically according to Microsoft, is easy. Just as synchronization with PC and Internet through MyPhone.
Warning: models presented on Tuesday by Microsoft were often racing beasts, the computing power much greater than that of iPhone 3Gs Apple for example. Normal in these conditions, the flow has amazed the journalists present. It remains to be seen the result on the smartphones of entry or midrange.
Manufacturers Samsung, HTC, LG or Sony Ericsson are on the niche and offer aircraft equipped with the new operating system. SFR first operator to market the Windows Phone in France, organized Wednesday launched with great fanfare in Paris.
To complete its strategic shift, Microsoft will release Windows Mobile 7 shortly. Asked about this, Steve Ballmer dodged the question: "Windows Mobile 7 comes after 6.5". In 2010, this output may arrive a little late to overtake the competition.
