Rumors & Releases: Windows Mobile 7 Multiple Versions, Versace Launches Phone
Remember when Windows Vista arrived for the PC and how there was confusion over all the different versions available? It seems that Microsoft hasn't exactly learned from its mistakes because word now is that there could be two very different versions of Windows Mobile 7 - one for consumers and one for businesses.
The official details will likely be unveiled at the Mobile World Congress next month in Barcelona, Spain, but what we have heard is that the "Business Edition" (BE) will feature much more focus on Microsoft Office Mobile. More notable is the fact that the business version will allow the handset makers to strip down the user interface and customize it for the device.
The consumer version, also called the "Media Edition" (ME) could feature an interface based around the Microsoft Zune, which means we should expect an emphasis on audio, video and gaming, as well as social networking.
Where we see a problem is that software and apps for the current version of Windows Mobile won't run on this new ME. And for the record, didn't Microsoft also learn that the last ME (as in Windows Millennium Edition) was a disaster. Why would the company want anything to ever use these letters again? OK, I get it that the phone could have the "me" sounding moniker, but considering that the last ME was only slightly better than Vista, you'd think Microsoft would run to the hills to avoid using those letters again.
Of course, an even bigger issue that I see is that ME apps won't run on the BE version. In other words, Microsoft is bringing out not Windows Mobile 7, but rather two operating systems. Is this an example of hedging bets or just a really bad move?
The iPhone and Android should be proof positive that a handset and operating system can work for business and dare we say life. In other words, people don't leave the BlackBerry on the dresser when they change out of work clothes anymore. The handset you bring to the beach is the handset you bring to work. So trying to come up with two versions is just a move in the wrong direction.
We'll have to wait until the official word, but as of now we're hearing that the HTC HD2 will arrive as a BE version this fall, while Microsoft will likely be showing off the ME version in Spain next month.
Versace to Launch Mobile Phone
Move over Nexus One, Milan-based fashion house Verasace announced plans this week to launch a luxury mobile phone based on its top designer brands. After all, if you're wearing Verasace or other power suits could you seriously settle for just another BlackBerry or iPhone?
Just don't expect to get your hands on one, at least not right away. While the phone will launch sometime this spring, we might not even get a look at it until closer to its launch. This new handset will be unveiled to select clients - meaning those worthy of red carpets - at a private showing during Paris Haute Couture later this month.
No word has been announced on the price of the phone, but last fall Giorgio Armani unveiled a mobile phone for $700 euros (approx. $1,000) while Prada has been in the mobile phone market as well. Given these costs we wouldn't expect a discount for two-year service plans either.
