Explanation of Many Different Windows Mobile Operating System Versions

Posted November 4, 2011

Microsoft has created a great deal of confusion with it’s many versions of Windows for mobile devices: Windows Mobile, Windows CE, Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5, Windows Phone 7, Windows Embedded Compact 7, etc.

What are the current Windows operating systems for handheld devices?

Mobile device manufacturers like Motorola, Honeywell, Intermec and Datalogic handheld mobile computers using Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 and Windows Embedded Compact 7 solutions. Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 and Windows Embedded Compact 7 are great platforms to power the wide range of Enterprise Handheld Devices used by enterprise customers today.

Microsoft recommends Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 as the platform when:

  • Application compatibility across a wide range of devices is desired
  • The device requires advanced security (remote wipe, password enforcement) and device management capabilities
  • Voice telephony is desired (Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 provides Cellcore and Dialer capabilities for enterprise handheld devices)

Microsoft recommends Windows Embedded Compact 7 when:

  • A high degree of customization and flexibility is required for the device
  • The device focuses on a on a dedicated task

Why would I use Windows Embedded Handheld versus Windows Phone 7?

Windows Embedded Handheld is targeted at enterprise handheld devices that run line-of-business (LOB) applications. It’s intended for enterprise users who need a device that integrates with existing enterprise infrastructure, is compatible with Windows Mobile 6.5 applications, and leverages current device management and security solutions.

Windows Phone targets smart phones with a new UI, tools, and application marketplace. It is not compatible with Windows Mobile 6.5 applications.

Filed under: Tips

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