Just five years ago, the first Windows Mobile-based Pocket PCs shipped from three hardware partners. Today 40 device-makers are shipping innovative Windows Mobile-based products with 68 mobile operators in 48 countries. These hardware and mobile operator partners have contributed to Windows Mobile revenue growth of 31 percent from 2003 to 2004 and phone license sales more than double those of the previous year.
"In the past five years, there's been a profound shift in the kind of data and services people access on their mobile devices -- from multimedia to business applications," Gates said. "Windows Mobile 5.0 enables our industry partners to develop exciting new hardware designs and solutions that will revolutionize how customers use mobile devices."
"Windows Mobile 5.0 is an important evolutionary step for the Windows Mobile platform, which continues to gain traction worldwide," said John Jackson, Yankee Group senior analyst. "Enhancements in the platform give wireless network operators and mobile device vendors the ability to deliver customized, differentiated services and devices, while meeting the market's demand for robust, scalable, segmented offerings."
So, what can you expect from Windows Mobile 5.0 in terms of Exchange synchronization? You will get better offline mail management and some synchronization improvements including improved SSL support and downloading of contact pictures. However, some of these benefits will require ActiveSync 4.0 and/or Exchange 2003 SP2, both yet to be released.
The hand held vendors had already started to announce free upgrade of their recent handheld devices to Windows Mobile 5.0.
For more information turn to the Windows Mobile 5.0 Home Page:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/5/default.mspx
