Microsoft Windows Phone 7 Series Challenges Google, Apple

by Nicholas Kolakowski

As shown during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Feb. 15, Microsoft envisions the Windows Phone 7 Series as a total revamping of its mobile franchise, which faces declining market share.

The Windows Phone 7 Start screen dynamically updates with data from the Web. All Windows Phone 7 Series devices will include three mechanical buttons: Start, Search and Back.

Windows Phone 7 Series features “Hubs” that group together a variety of content. For example, the “People” hub merges your friends data from Outlook, Windows Live and other social-networking services.

The “Pictures” hub syncs with the photos on your PC, and enables users to upload those photos to social networking services. Friends photos are also displayed.

The “Office” hub allows access to Excel, PowerPoint, Word and OneNote documents, as well as a SharePoint server for better collaboration with colleagues.

Microsoft has integrated Xbox Live with its new phone software, allowing gamers to access their Xbox avatar and play games.

The Windows Phone 7 Series also integrates Zune software into its platform, providing access to music, videos, podcasts and radio.

Microsoft claims it will still support Windows Mobile 6.5, even after the launch of Windows Phone 7 Series devices.

Microsoft also says there will be a mobile applications marketplace for Windows Phone 7 Series devices, similar to the Mobile Marketplace for Windows Mobile 6.5.

While Microsoft used the rollout at the Mobile World Congress to emphasize the consumer aspects of Windows Phone 7 Series, it will likely highlight the enterprise utility at a future date.