It took 'em an extra three months (or so), but Microsoft finally unveiled the next version of Windows Mobile, their operating system for Smartphones and Pocket PCs, today.

ENGADGET: Windows Mobile 5.0 = Windows Mobile 2005

First up is the "Kaiser" (pictured top left), a follow-on to the Hermes that adds GPS -- a feature that's becoming increasingly common in high-end Pocket PCs.

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The PDA pioneer sought to take advantage of its dominance in handhelds, and stave off rival Pocket PCs powered by Windows CE, by licensing the Palm operating system while continuing to use it.

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Net platform, which aims to fulfill a "software as a service" vision: namely, Windows-based cards powering mobile phones -- not considered a good fit for Windows CE -- and Pocket PCs that are connected to Exchange servers.

CNN: Microsoft pushes smart cards

Pocket PC enthusiast sites like iPAQ HQ are reporting that HP has been making their lives very difficult by requiring them to sign an incredibly stringent agreement if they want to receive the latest iPAQ Pocket PCs to review.

ENGADGET: HP's buzzkill

While Blackberries, pocket PCs and mobile phones have made it easier to stay in touch with the office, the danger is that workers find it difficult to switch off even when they are supposed to be away from the office.

CNN: Stressed out in the sunshine

"Lenovo has had a more diversified product portfolio, making low-end and high-end PCs as well as smartphones, and has a deeper pocket to support its immense marketing needs, " Chen said.

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