Microsoft’s forthcoming Windows Mobile upgrade, code-named Magneto, is designed to be a BlackBerry killer, said sources familiar with the ambitious plan.
The Redmond, Wash.-based software giant is on track to freeze the Windows Mobile 2005 ROM code in April and provide new technology in Exchange 2003 Server Pack 2 that will push e-mail out to mobile workers who use Pocket PCs and smartphones.
Sources told CRN that Microsoft will unveil its Magneto plan at the Mobile and Embedded Developers Conference 2005 next month in Las Vegas.
Microsoft decided to freeze the code and have it in mobile operators’ hands in June or July so that the next generation of devices is ready for the fall and holiday season, said a source close to the company.
Magneto will lead the charge to a more comprehensive mobile strategy, sources said.
“Microsoft aims to kill BlackBerry,” said one source familiar with the plans. “Every corporate type has a BlackBerry, and they all have Outlook. What is the cost going to be to RIM server when Exchange Service Pack and Magneto come out and they’re not priced? Microsoft is giving it away for free.”
… More at source
