Steve Ballmer confirms Windows Mobile 6.5

“In talking about Windows Mobile 6.5, Steve Ballmer did not go in to specifics but did hint at an improvement in the interface and flow of the software. It is believed, however, that this will be the first release to contain the reported Zune software integration instead of the much delayed Windows Mobile 7 release. Though there was no specific date given for Windows Mobile 7, it was believed to be scheduled for as late as the third quarter of 2010, two years away.”

It looks Microsoft is expected to release Windows Mobile 6.5 to device manufactures within the next few months, which matches up with the previously suggested Q1 2009 release date for new Windows Mobile 6.5 devices or upgrades. I wouldn’t bank on having the Zune software integrated into the upcoming new version when it is released, but I would be pretty excited if it did happen. The Zune user interface is heaven when compared to the current Windows Media Player way of doing things. Hopefully now that Steve Ballmer has broken the seal, more news will slowly start to trickle down in the next few weeks.

The possibility of there being a Windows Mobile 6.5 fell in the “rumor” column after Motorola CEO casually mentioned it in a conference call. Now have official word from Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer that this rumor is reality. This news came as a surprise to the community – as we had our eyes on Windows Mobile 7 and hadn’t had any indication that there would be a release inbetween.

If you want to hear his comments, click on to the Telstra Live Webcast, then pick the Q&A Session 2 in the drop down below the video, and go to around 12 minutes, where he answers a question about the next 12, 18, 24 months of Windows Mobile:
With releases we’ll make this year – releases we’ll make with 6.5 next year, Windows Mobile 7, I think we have a pretty interesting roadmap.

So there you have it – Windows Mobile 6.5 is real, and will be shipping on devices next year! Let the speculation begin =D. Thanks to msmobiles for the keen eye.

Via PocketPCthoughts