Microsoft Pink Rumors Just Will Not Die

Once again there are rumors swirling around on Microsoft's supposed Project Pink, which is Microsoft's own entry into the phone world. No, not just the operating system, but the hardware as well. Could the software giant be ready to release their own phone, potentially upsetting their OEM partners like HTC?Microsoft has a number of partners like Motorola, HTC, Samsung and LG, but these have all added Android to their product line, so it isn't like there has to be a monogamous relationship between the two parties. Microsoft has already done this with the Zune and has had more success with just a handful of devices than all of the "Plays for Sure" partners had. Windows Mobile has taken a bit of a beating in recent years, just as Microsoft's music ecosystem had several years ago, but the situation isn't really the same. Windows Mobile's problems are mostly due to stagnation after WinMo 5 was released in 2005. It certainly isn't due to lackluster efforts by OEM partners. Companies like Samsung and HTC have heavily modified the WinMo platform in an effort to keep up with the times. To suggest that Microsoft's platform is being stifled by manufacturers is laughable. They are the ones that have kept it somewhat fresh for the last year or so. So why should Microsoft consider going it on their own now?

9to5Mac has information that indicates that Microsoft itself will introduce two new smartphones next year, most likely at the CES event at the beginning of the year. 9to5Mac says that these two devices are the result of the Danger acquisition. Danger is the company that makes the Sidekick. Sharp will make the hardware for Microsoft.

One of the devices will have a slide-out keyboard and is called "Turtle." The second is a candy bar device and is called "Pure."

Of course, there is no real info in the rumors as to what the platform will be. It could be Windows Mobile 6.5, but it also may be the Zune with phone bits added in. The Zune phone rumors have been around for some time. It could also be a mix, meaning WinMo 6.5 with the Zune interface for media and the home screen, but all of the application compatibility of a normal WinMo device.

Personally, I am not putting a lot of faith in these rumors. Microsoft is doing its level best to get WinMo 7 out the door before the iPhone renders the platform obsolete, and the Zune HD just launched sans a camera or any application store. For Microsoft to spend any resources on this third platform makes little sense, and actually shows a lack of clear direction. I could be wrong though. We'll see what rumors and evidence crops up in the coming months and then see what the January CES show has to offer.