What to expect from Windows Phone 7

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Windows Phone 6.5 will feature the Windows Zune interface as seen on standalone media players, so a more iPod-like experience can be expected on Windows 7 as the multimedia capabilities evolve, as well as increased storage to come in line with other multimedia phones.

In terms of multiple application operation, Windows Mobile devices can already support up to 31 individual applications running at the same time. However, with faster processors becoming the norm - for example Qualcomm's Snapdragon 1GHz processor as installed in the Toshiba TG01 - it’s reasonable to suspect that any device running Windows Phone 7 will have to include a faster processor to allow you to run infinite number of applications at any one time.

Converged devices are nothing new, so it won’t be a surprise to GPS, Wi-Fi and HSPA onboard any new Windows devices.

Pre-installed software could be something to appear on newer handsets too, especially with companies such as Microsoft bringing its Office suite to Nokia S60 phones. Microsoft won’t want to create a bigger threat to itself by licensing Nokia to use its Windows Live products.

What others think

Matt Hatton, analyst at Analysys Mason thinks that guessing what will be included in Windows Phone 7 is harder than just naming features though.

“All has been hush-hush over what'll be on Windows Mobile 7. I assume they'll work on an improved UI but everything else is guesswork,” he said.

“It - or rather 'they' as there will be multiple phones from multiple vendors - will fit squarely into the high-end smartphone category.

However, he too thinks Microsoft has been left a little behind in the smartphone category.

“There's some stiff competition out there from the likes of Apple, Nokia with its new Maemo device the N900, the Palm Pre and all those Android devices. Plus BlackBerry, of course.”

Joining the app parade

One major software tweak coming with Windows Mobile 6.5 is the introduction of Windows Market, and the success of this alternative to Apple’s App Store will lie in the take up and how Windows Phone 7 will build on the success after launch.

Hatton explained that the way app stores work is changing and this is something that Microsoft needs to take into account.

“I think in general the apps marketplace is shifting towards vendors and away from operators. The success of the marketplace will depend entirely on the success of the devices as that will determine the potential market size,” he said.

“Apple changed the applications game with its app store but it's a relatively easy model to replicate as long as you have the scale to ensure it’s worth developers' time developing applications.”

Although it’s hard to predict what Windows Phone 7 will bring specifically, especially as we’re still awaiting the revamped 6.5 OS, it’s important that Microsoft updates its antiquated mobile interface to move in line with other smartphone manufacturers.

"The mobile market is fast moving and Windows needs constant innovation if it wants a place at the top table of smartphone operating systems. I saw 6.5 as an interim measure anyway,” concluded Hatton.

Read on to find out which mobile platform is best for business.

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