Microsoft Pink phone runs like Windows ME?

The rumored and oft-denied Pink phone by Microsoft is gaining some credibility of actually existing. According to ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley (no relation to Axel Foley, I asked), Microsoft has leaked some key information that not only says Pink is real but is going to wow an awful lot of folks. Years ago, Microsoft divided its Windows unit: NT to focus on business and ME to focus on consumers. There is every reason to believe it will try something similar for its Windows Mobile vision.

First, Ms. Foley’s claimed rumors:

• Pink will use the same ad agency that the Windows Mobile team uses.
• Pink will be based on Windows Mobile 7, but won’t look like it.
• Pink will be later than Windows Mobile 6.5
• Built by Motorola or Sharp, expect a device targeted at Sidekick users with that Zune UI everyone seems to like (or at least not hate)

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To me, this project smacks of a Seinfeld episode: “OK team, we are in trouble in mobile OS land, so I want you to do the exact opposite as the Windows Mobile 7 team.” Personally, I think it is a good idea to try some rebranding for the Windows Mobile team. The WinMo name gets dragged through the dirt and something fresh would be very nice to see coming out of Redmond.

The Danger purchase would make sense if Microsoft was bent on dividing its WinMo operation into business and consumer divisions as well. The division would likely be a shell UI difference, but might go a long way in differentiating their product as Apple and BlackBerry offer one OS to serve all markets. In light of Android’s open and no cost availability to manufacturers, MS has to pull something pretty cool here to make a dent. The Pink phone is expected to be that cool.

Will we see Zune integration? Xbox game porting? Hopefully we’ll learn more soon.

Read [ZD Net