From now on, PCs won’t be the only ones wearing the Windows label on their foreheads. During the GSMA Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer talked about the next generation “Windows phones,” and about Windows Mobile 6.5.

 

Referring to the Windows phones, Microsoft announced partnerships with HTC, LG and Orange, and highlighted two new services for users: My Phone, a sync service via the web, and Windows Marketplace for Mobile for direct-to-phone mobile applications.

 

Steve Ballmer said in Barcelona that Windows phones will bring together the best of the Web, the PC and the phone. Furthermore, he said, the new generation of Windows phones will break down the barriers between people, information and applications and will provide great end-to-end experiences.

 

Microsoft has also presented Windows Mobile 6.5 with its fresh and revamped user interface, as well as a richer browsing experience. Windows Mobile 6.5 also comes with a new home-screen, as well as customizable widgets.

 

The mobile OS will become available later this year, CEO Steve Ballmer confirmed in Barcelona. He also said that the new operating system will take the phones to a new level, and will provide a more seamless and simpler user experience.

 

The Microsoft My Phone service will add up to that experience, making it easier for users to manage their information through the Web, making it accessible and fast to restore onto a new mobile device.

 

Furthermore, the Windows Marketplace for Windows phones shows that Microsoft has learnt a lot from Apple when it comes to making all the apps available in one place, at the reach of all users.

 

The mobile market isn’t exactly at its peak right now, as mobile phone sales haven’t exactly soared in the past months, and the situation is likely to continue. On the other hand, Microsoft is optimistic that based on the momentum they’re building now, things will begin to change.