Windows Phone 7 is a complete re-write. Microsoft continues to say that it is not ceasing support for Windows Mobile 6.5, but the new product is just that: new; not an upgrade. Rumors also persist that the company is actually on pace to deliver far earlier than expected. Microsoft would not comment on those rumors, nor specify a more precise ship date.

Although the software is not finished it is "in a really good state," according to Aaron Woodman, Director of Consumer Experiences for Microsoft's Mobile Communications Business. A technical preview means that devices running WIndows Phone 7 are undergoing lab testing at mobile operators. It also means that lots of developers are also getting test devices -- these are coming from ASUS, Samsung and LG. Microsoft announced some of its early application developers at MIX, including The Associated Press, WeatherBug, Electronic Arts, Fandango, Match.com, Photobucket, Seesmic and Sling Media. Not surprisingly, the list also includes Microsoft Game Studios -- the OS will ship with an Xbox client.

Some of the biggest differences in Windows Phone 7 revolve around Microsoft's tighter control of the entire ecosystem: developers will build in Silverlight, XNA and .Net; apps will only be supported via Microsoft's Marketplace; and there are a minimum set of hardware requirements for phones. The hardware basics include 256 MB of RAM, with a minimum of 4 GB Flash, WiFi (802.11 b/g), multi-touch capacitive screens and sensors for GPS, accelerometer, compass, proximity and light. Also, every phone will have the exact same feature buttons in the exact same places on the phone, including the hardware Bing button that will be one of three "power" buttons on the bottom of the phone.

By: DocMemory
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