Microsoft plans on Monday to officially announce Windows Mobile 6, formerly code-named Crossbow, at the 3GSM trade show in Barcelona. The first devices using the software aren't expected until spring, however, with the bulk of products using the new operating system likely to come in the second half of the year. Windows Mobile 6 builds in support for Windows Live instant messaging and e-mail, which enables users to see whether a contact is online and to get their Hotmail or Windows Live Mail messages pushed down automatically. It will also contain mobile versions of SQL Server and .Net Compact Framework, significant upgrades over previous versions.

Windows Mobile 6 will also include Office - a suite of popular software programs including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. The Mobile 6 version will have direct push email and automatic synchronization options for Outlook and Exchange Server platforms. Viewing of email messages and attachments has been simplified, with one touch all that's needed for many routine functions. And the addition of Word and Excel, especially, will be welcome news to many mobile users. You won't be able to spell check in Word, though.