As expected, Microsoft announced at Mobile World Congress 2009 the new version of its mobile phone operating system. The new Windows Mobile 6.5 wants to catch up to meet the needs of touch screens, more abundant between the terminals of last generation (the current edition of the fair in Barcelona proves it). Hence it has been prepared for use by clicking directly on the fingers, instead of resorting to a stylus or stylus.
Comes with a new interface, whose menus have been renovated. Instead of the previous scheme distributes individual desktop icons on a honeycomb composed of hexagonal cells. This is one aspect in which the system is more simple and intuitive to use with their fingers. It remains the home screen based on panels, though with a facelift. In addition, the new locking system allowing direct access to common functions with just moving the icon.
The changes have also affected some of its applications, such as Internet Explorer. This web browser now has shortcut icons that correspond to frequently used tools (like the favorites list or browser). It also has the option to zoom with your fingers, even in full screen mode.
The last of the noteworthy developments is the development of contact management. The different sections of each entry are separated more clearly, so that users find it easier to click on them without mistake. The possibility to include pictures easier to identify each contact, using the newly expanded space above each field.
Moreover, all this is complemented by a synchronization service contacts over the Internet called My Phone. The idea is to access and update data through a password access. So if you lose or change the mobile, the process of moving contacts is easier. Provided, of course, is done with Windows Mobile phones.
Another innovation from Microsoft is a mobile application store for Windows Mobile. Clearly the idea of Apple's iPhone has done with the draft. And if Google or Nokia also have their own store, Microsoft is not going to be less.
The first devices equipped with Windows Mobile 6.5 does not appear until the last quarter of 2009. It seems that Microsoft no hurry to launch its system, although it has confirmed the update on three new handsets: HTC Touch Diamond 2, HTC Touch Pro 2 and LG GM730. All three have been presented today to the previous version 6.1, and curiously all use an interface to meet their own shortcomings in touch phones.
