It's official - October 6

The latest and greatest version of Windows Mobile, rebranded now as the Windows Phone is going to be officially launched on 6 October according to the windows phone blogsite. http://windowsteamblog.com/blogs/windowsphone/archive/2009/09/01/windows-phones-are-coming-on-october-6th.aspx

I have to say that personally I am really looking forward to this release, despite having used the iPhone for the last three months. I miss the ability to multitask, change my battery, and really cool features like high resolution digital camera with flash.

Of course the Windows Mobile Marketplace won't have as many applications as the iPhone App Store, but this is more an opportunity for companies like mine, rather than a hindrance to the platform.

The biggest advantage of course is that most (smartphone owning) people recycle their phones on about a 9 to 12 month time period.  Which means that there will be a whole bunch of users ready for Windows Phone version 7 when it comes out, including all those who have been using the iPhone for the last year or so.

So if you've been hankering for the latest version of Windows Mobile, and just don't want to buy a fruit phone; or if you have a great iPhone, and really want the features of the latest version of Windows like a high Res digital camera, qwerty keyboard, or replaceable battery; then you just have to wait for three more weeks until October 6.