What Is Windows Phone 7?

Windows Phone 7 is the latest operating system for mobile phones by Microsoft, the publisher of Windows on desktop computers. Previously, Microsoft created and sold software called “Windows Mobile,” which ran on smartphones and looked very similar to how Windows appears on desktop computers, Start menu and all. However, all of that has now changed!

I first learned about Windows Phone 7 (then called Windows Mobile 7) a few years ago. At the time, in super-secret sessions about which I am legally not allowed to speak (and really don't want to anyway), it appeared to be an interesting product, but nothing too revolutionary or new. However, as Microsoft watched the world change with regard to how people use smartphones, it came to realize that it needed to change course and produce an excellent mobile experience. Windows Phone 7, in its current form, was born. The device you're holding (or possibly have lying next to this book) is one of many Windows Phone 7 devices made by a variety of manufacturers. While they're all physically different (e.g., in terms of style, shape, and color), the....