HP today announced plans to support the Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system on future smartphone devices, continuing its efforts to deliver the latest wireless technologies to the diverse mobile professional market.

Windows Mobile 6.5 on HP smartphones will offer key enhancements to business productivity, personal messaging and mobile Internet capabilities, making it even easier for mobile customers to communicate and to manage critical business and personal information. With its new visual appeal, enhanced mobile Internet experience and greater personalization capabilities, the new operating system boosts the opportunities for Windows-based smartphones in broader market segments.

“HP continues to work toward developing smartphones that simplify the mobile experience and meet evolving customer needs,” said Susan Macke, vice president, Marketing, Handheld Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. “Working closely with key partners such as Microsoft allows for smooth integration of new technologies for the best possible customer experience.”

“Windows phones enable people to stay on top of their personal and business lives by connecting them to the diverse array of information they need throughout the day,” said Todd Peters, corporate vice president, Mobile Communications Business, at Microsoft Corp. “We’re excited HP will offer phones with Windows Mobile 6.5, which will help people access and personalize services and applications that can make a phone truly individual.”

The refreshed look of the new operating system offers a more interactive touch experience that responds to tapping, flicking and panning on-screen movements. The mobile Internet experience is improved with browser enhancements and Rich Internet Application (RIA) support that allows users to add new dynamic applications on the home screen.

Additionally, with Windows Mobile 6.5, customers will have new ways to personalize their smartphones including new themes, applications and ring tones, and by using personal photos as photo contact cards and for the home screen background.

Customers can also transfer music and video to their smartphones with Windows Media Player and select an array of widgets for use on their home screens. Customers will enjoy staying up to date with a rich and more-efficient messaging experience. HP smartphones with Windows Mobile 6.5 will automatically discover Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 settings for company e-mail. A unified e-mail inbox allows customers to see “text” or Short Messaging Service (SMS) messages and conveniently playback their voicemail. SMS messages can also be archived on an Exchange Server to safeguard information for later reference.

HP, the world’s largest technology company, simplifies the technology experience for consumers and businesses with a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure.