October 18, 2006 - Several days ago, we reported that screenshots of the next version of Windows Mobile, code-named "Crossbow," had been leaked onto the Internet.  Today, CRN is reporting that Microsoft intends to announce Crossbow at the Microsoft Mobile & Embedded Conference in November, and have the new OS out to device manufacturers by December 31.

It isn't yet clear if Crossbow represents an update to Windows Mobile 5 or an entirely new Windows Mobile 6. Either way, Microsoft is planning more Office integration with Crossbow, many aspects of which will only function with the upcoming Office 2007.

Microsoft BETA testers and development partners are beginning to speak out about Crossbow for the first time, though all are opting to remain anonymous for now.  One partner is quoted by CRN regarding Crossbow's stability: "Crossbow is much more stable than the previous [Windows Mobile] version.  It's about stability -- no problems in the first 10 minutes or the first 10 days." 

"The one complaint I had about the Messaging and Security Feature Pack [for Windows Mobile 5.0] is that while it does everything that the BlackBerry does, the downside is the interface. The fonts and mail come across, in my opinion, as not ready. And it needs to be refreshed," said another partner. "The next release of the OS, Crossbow, has some substantial improvements to reading and manipulating e-mail."

While Microsoft may intend to release the OS to Pocket PC and smartphone manufacturers by the end of 2006, it will likely be late Q1 or Q2 2007 before Crossbow devices hit the market.

- Pocket PC Central Press