Microsoft, Sprint working to mobilize the Internet

By Giselle Abramovich

April 2, 2008

Dan Hesse, CEO of Sprint Nextel

LAS VEGAS - Microsoft Corp. has launched Windows Mobile 6.1 for  handsets, making it easier for people to manage their lives.

With mobility at the center of all of life’s scenarios, the software giant realizes hardware and software innovation is important. So said Robert J. Bach, president of the entertainment and devices division at Microsoft at the CTIA Wireless 2008 show.

"Mobile at Microsoft is a company-wide effort,” Mr. Bach said. “Software and services will be the engine that drives the wireless industry.”

Windows Mobile 6.1 is designed to make the mobile phone simpler and easier to use for data and voice. It’s a full desktop experience that allows users to interact with Web sites that are not optimized for the mobile phone.

The new system lets users see life and, at a glance, through the phone’s home screen, which lists all the pressing matters on a person’s device.

A user can enter appointments and meetings and the phone will automatically go to vibrate at those times to avoid disruptive ncalls.

The system has over 100 different ISP settings, meaning any personal emails are detectable on the phone.

Windows Mobile 6.1 also has cut-and-paste capabilities for the first time.

Mr. Bach said the threaded text message feature is great for mobile operators as this will drive mobile text usage, too.

“What we are doing here is giving consumers choice, in terms of customization,” Mr. Bach said. “We are dedicated to making development tools for the mobile platform. We have to drive innovation.”

Live search is continuously being updated. The company believes that the real Web experience supports all the media standards.

Meanwhile, Dan Hesse, CEO of Sprint Nextel, announced that the company is attempting to mobilize the Web as well with the launch of the new X1Experia phone, preloaded with Windows Mobile 6.1.

Many AT&T phones will be supporting Windows Mobile 6.1 and Sprint will also upload it to its newer devices.

“People want wireless to be instant,” Mr. Hesse said. “You usually want instant gratification on a device.”

Sprint is currently working to provide instant gratification to customers through Xohm WiMax from Sprint.

“Xohm is our effort to building a network to mobilize the Internet,”Mr. Hesse said. “It will allows users to get access to their content and business applications from wherever they are.”