Have a Windows Mobile 6.x device? Forget about Windows Phone 7 upgrade

Microsoft has been toying with the hearts of Windows Mobile 6.5 users as misinformation about upgrading the OS to Windows Phone 7 has spread on the web. Initially, Microsoft made it clear that most WinMo 6.5 devices or lower did not have the hardware necessary to support Windows Phone 7. Shortly after making this statement, the software company said on its Twitter account that the upgrade may be possible, but it would be up to the hardware manufacturers whether their respective devices will get the new operating system.

So where does this leave Windows Mobile 6.5 users?

According to Microsoft, Windows Phone 7 will require very tight hardware specs, and even HTC’s HD2 won’t meet these stringent requirements. Aside from a high-resolution touchscreen and super fast processor, the HD2 has too many navigation buttons. Yes, you read that correctly: too many navigation buttons. Microsoft is reversing its direction of getting an operating system onto any piece of hardware that will take it. Windows Phone 7 devices are going to have just three buttons and the design is going to be very strict, much like Apple’s approach to the iPhone.

We’re sure there is more to this than just buttons and hardware, but the message here is that Microsoft isn’t just starting fresh with its new mobile operating system, but with hardware, too. The company is slimming down and focusing on quality instead of quantity – something it probably should have done years ago, but better late than never, right?

If you’re a loyal Windows or Microsoft user and you’re desperately wanting a Windows Phone, be prepared to say good bye to your current WinMo handset.

via APC