Conclusions

Today Screen Side-By-Side 

Windows Mobile 5.0 is shaping up to be a solid improvement over previous versions of Pocket PC.  All of the under-the-hood improvements such as standard PlaysForSure support, push email, and improved networking and wifi support, are all solid enhancements.  The addition of PowerPoint Mobile is also a strong addition to the Windows Mobile platform. 

Perhaps the best change is the improvements to the user interface.  Pocket PC 2003’s biggest weakness was the overly complex menus and tablet input panel.  Windows Mobile has successfully simplified these issues while also improving the overall look and feel of the interface.  Pocket PC veterans will feel at home and first-time users will feel confident with the new interface.

With Windows Mobile 5.0, Microsoft has achieved a significant technological advantage over both of its primary rivals: PalmSource and Research In Motion.  Palm OS is aging badly and lacks many of the niceties of Windows Mobile such as true multi-threading, advanced networking features, native office applications, and of course push email.  The BlackBerry, although inferior in technology, does offer the benefit of being the simplest of the three devices to use – particularly for less than tech-savvy users.  Microsoft has made great strides in adding new technology to better compete with the BlackBerry while also improving the user experience.  Windows Mobile 5.0 will undoubtedly make a splash upon its October release.