Microsoft is to fight back against Apple and Google with the
release tomorrow of the first mobile phones running
Windows Mobile 6.5.
The success of Apple's iPhone and Google's
Android mobile operating system has prompted Microsoft to push
through a release of its redesigned Windows Mobile operating
system.
Windows Mobile 6.5 includes support for a touch-screen interface
and connects to a new online store where mobile users will be able
to download applications.
Microsoft also claims to have improved the software's internet
browser to overcome some of the big shortcomings of earlier
versions.
The stop-gap release is seen as essential in preventing
Microsoft falling further behind competitors, according to the
Financial Times.
Microsoft has lost almost 3% of its share of the smartphone
operating system market in the past year according to second
quarter financial results.
The software firm is racing to complete a more thorough overhaul
of its mobile operating system to further counter losses to
competitors who have focussed more on the consumer market.
Windows Mobile 7 is due for release early next year and is
expected to include features designed to offer stronger competition
to Apple's iPhone.
In Europe, phones operating Windows Mobile 6.5 will be available
from Orange and Vodafone, as well as phone manufacturers Acer, HTC,
LG Electronics, Samsung, Sony Ericsson and Toshiba.