A New "Blackberry Killer"? You don't Say!
The new version of Microsoft's Windows Mobile is apparently the new “Blackberry Killer”. Why? Apparently, it features push e-mail, support for cool-looking graphics, better video support through Windows Media 10 and improved mobile chat through Pocket MSN. Rule #1 when it comes to anything new from Microsoft: those who get carried away with their enthusiasm risk being disappointed. It's one thing to become excited about what a new software platform's potential bell and whistles; it's quite another thing about the actual performance. The Blackberry is a killer device because it excels at a particular task: mobile e-mail. While Research in Motion can talk about the Blackberry becoming a wireless application platform, two million people have one because it's the best way to send and receive mobile e-mail. Microsoft has a mandate to be all things all people, and Windows Mobile is a perfect example of this approach. In theory, it's a great idea but sometimes problematic in real life. If you're looking for a “Blackberry Killer” - if one actually exists - the Treo 650 is pretty close to the ultimate all-in-one wireless device. Its push e-mail technology is not exactly elegant but it's good enough; the telephone works pretty well, while the Web browser kicks some serious Blackberry butt.
