While there are plenty of mobile productivity options out there, I’ve found that I’m still most comfortable with Microsoft’s Office Mobile. The software giant has just released the 2010 version and it will be a free upgrade for Windows Mobile 6.5 users.
It’s definitely tough to get too ecstatic about an Office suite but this version does include some cool stuff that should help you be more productive on the go. It includes the new mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and SharePoint Workspace. PowerPoint has received a significant boost, as mobile users can now add videos, texts and images from the handset. Word has added auto-previewing and Excel gained deeper data visualization abilities.
As you’d expect from a product like this, you’ll be able to edit documents offline and have it sync back once connectivity is restored. As with the KIN devices, Microsoft is pushing forward a cloud-centric vision for its mobile services and devices.
“We evaluated a number of competitive options in our recent technology assessment, and chose Microsoft Office 2010 as our new desktop productivity standard,” said Mark Mastrianni, manager, global technology licensing and acquisition for GE, in a prepared statement. “This platform will continue to position GE on the leading edge of technology and provide a clear road map that supports our business priorities in the coming years. Office 2010’s familiar, easy-to-use interface – coupled with its new tools that will enable better collaboration and drive improved efficiency and productivity for our employees and customers – made this selection the right decision for our company.”
So, this is a great boost for Windows Mobile users but Office still has a cruddy interface. We won’t see a super slick version until Windows Phone 7 hits with its Office Hub. Don’t believe me? Well, we had a chance to see it in person, so check out our hands-on video below and judge for yourself.