Best Mobile Business Software of CTIA Wireless 2008: Windows Mobile 6.1

Windows Mobile gets a welcome makeover with the arrival of version 6.1 of the smart phone operating system. A revamped, sliding-panel Today screen minimizes menu-digging and allows you to do everything from checking incoming e-mails and creating new appointments to playing your favorite tunes. Contextual soft-touch keys also helps to save users time.

Other convenient additions include streamlined text messaging, the ability to copy and paste from an e-mail or Internet Explorer Mobile window, and even multiple-message selection for sorting, deleting, or marking as “Read.” Last but not least is a Getting Started wizard that helps first-time smart phone owners set up their device and minimize the learning curve.

On the enterprise level, Microsoft has added support for its Mobile Device Manager for large businesses looking to have more control over employee’s handsets. We’re also looking forward to Microsoft’s revamped Internet Explorer Mobile application (adding support for H.264 video, Adobe Flash, and Silverlight), which will debut later in 2008.

Windows Mobile 6.1 is a welcome evolutionary upgrade and should attract many more potential smart phone buyers to Microsoft’s platform.