First Windows Mobile 6.5 Smartphones Expected Q3 2009?

The rumor that Microsoft is planning to announce Windows Mobile 6.5 at Mobile World Congress in February is looking even more likely, with word coming from Taiwanese handset manufacturers that, following the launch, the OS will be released in mid-2009.  The first devices running WM6.5 will be launched in Q3 2009, the sources continue, but the majority of the new range will not be available until Q4, in time for the holiday shopping season.

Unlike some rumors have suggested, manufacturers do not believe that Microsoft plans to develop its own Windows Mobile 6.5 device, instead continuing to licence the OS to multiple companies.  Since the success of the iPhone, many have expected Microsoft to counter Apple with a self-branded smartphone.

Microsoft is also expected to announce a new pair of online cellphone backup services, targeted at consumers and businesses, called SkyBox and SkyLine, together with an on-device software download system called SkyMarket.  The latter would go head to head with Apple's App Store for iPhone, promoting Windows Mobile software and enabling users to access new apps directly from their smartphone.