Microsoft's timeline for Windows Mobile 7 and Project Pink detailed

In one fell swoop, CNET’s Ina Fried has apparently put an end to all the rumors regarding Windows Mobile 7 and those Project Pink phones. According to Fried, Mobile World Congress 2010 may herald a new beginning for Microsoft as it attempts to win back the smartphone market with the unveiling of Windows Mobile 7. Shortly after Windows Mobile 7’s official debut, Microsoft is expected to provide developers who attend the at the Mix10 Conference in March with information necessary to begin development for Windows Mobile 7. Though an official launch date has not been determined, Microsoft is aiming to finalize the code for Windows Mobile 7 by Summer 2010 with the intent of launching devices in the latter half of the year. As a side project separate from Windows Mobile 7, Microsoft will leverage the technology and talent of Microsoft-owned Danger by developing a new line of consumer phones that will form the foundation for the next generation Sidekick. These new “Sidekicks” will be powered by Windows Mobile and will integrate with Zune and other Microsoft services. They have already been pictured and will most likely not be a mobile phone version of the Zune HD that everyone was gossiping about last year. These Project Pink devices are expected to debut later this year ahead of Microsoft’s Windows Mobile 7 offerings. So it might make sense T-Mobile is looking to can the existing device line…

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