With the latest version of Windows Mobile (Windows Mobile 6), you might be tempted to leave your laptop behind. Here's how Microsoft is making smartphones even smarter—and better for business needs. In Summary:| • | Mobile versions of popular Microsoft business and productivity applications make it as easy to work on the road as in the office. | | • | Enhanced management features keep the data on your mobile devices updated and protected at all times. | | • | Windows Mobile 6 is available through major cellular carriers worldwide. |
Mobility is no longer an option in business—it's necessary. The new Windows Vista operating system understands this with features such as the Mobility Center and Sync Center that make laptops easier to use on the go. But what about smartphones? The latest version of Windows Mobile (Windows Mobile 6) has evolved into something far beyond a PDA. It might even be the first step toward the completely mobile office. Finally, a mobile device that mirrors your PCWith mobile versions of familiar Microsoft applications built into Windows Mobile 6, your smartphone can do things once reserved for full-fledged PCs: | • | View and edit Microsoft Office program files, including Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations, in their original formats. | | • | Access and update business-critical databases based on Microsoft SQL Server and the Microsoft .NET Compact Framework. | | • | Receive e-mail in rich HTML format, complete with attached files and live links to Web sites. | | • | Browse online and read e-mail messages via virtually any Web-based e-mail account using Microsoft Internet Explorer Mobile. | | • | Sign in to Windows Live for Windows Mobile to exchange instant messages, record and send audio notes, and transmit files and images to multiple users. |
Improved synchronization and connectivity optionsIf you often find yourself without some vital piece of information because you forgot to update your PDA, Windows Mobile 6 resolves that problem. It incorporates Direct Push technology, which contacts your company's Microsoft Exchange Server and automatically synchronizes your Microsoft Office Outlook e-mail, calendars, tasks, and contacts between your desk and mobile device. Windows Mobile 6 can also turn your smartphone into a high-speed cellular modem. Connect a cable or launch the Bluetooth connection, and your laptop is online without you having to hunt for a wireless access point. Better protection against prying eyesWindows Mobile 6 includes enhanced features for mobile security. Your company's IT administrator can set Microsoft Exchange Server to remotely erase all data on a lost or stolen device the next time it tries to download files or e-mail messages. Windows Mobile 6 can also encrypt files when you back up your contacts and other data on a memory card, so no other device can read them. Windows Mobile 6 is already here with the support of several major mobile carriers. In Europe, Orange offers the SPV E650 smartphone from HTC. In Japan, SoftBank Mobile has new devices from HTC and Toshiba. In the United States, T-Mobile subscribers who use the Dash smartphone can upgrade from Windows Mobile 5.0. If you use another carrier or vendor, you won't have to wait long. Cingular Wireless (now the new AT&T), Chunghwa Telecom, Dopod International, HP, LG Electronics, Motorola, Palm, Samsung, SingTel, Sprint, Telefónica, Toshiba, Verizon Wireless, Vodafone, and Willcom will all have Windows Mobile 6-ready devices soon. Call your provider for more information. Fawn Fitter is a freelance writer in San Francisco who specializes in business and technology. She contributes regularly to the Microsoft Midsize Business Center.
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