Windows 7 on a phone: the 2-hour Post-PC device

Fujitsu is launchinga unique dual-mode smartphone tomorrow in Japan that doubles as a handheld Windows 7 computer. Known as the FujitsuF-07C, the device works as a Symbian phone for standard phone use, but can switch to Windows 7 with the touch of a button, notes SlashGear. Pricing wont be announced until the device goes on sale through NTT DoCoMo, but since the phone has some high-end hardware, its likely to cost far more than even the most expensive pure smartphones available today.

If that doesnt convince folks to buy it, perhaps the up to 2 hours of run-time in Windows mode will. Im being facetious of course, mainly because this is as niche as a mobile device gets and I think Fujitsu would be better off spending the R&D dollars for this product on something with stronger mass-market appeal. While the phone will surely find a small market, I cant help but think this is the worst possible combination of product brands when it comes to a mobile device.

Symbian was fine in its day and still has a massive global following, but even Nokia, its biggest supporter, has dumped it for Microsofts Windows Phone 7 platform. Speaking of Microsoft, using Windows, a desktop operating system, on a 4-inch, 1024600 mobile device screen will be an exercise in frustration for all but the most patient. Optimized for mobile use, Windows Phone 7 is enjoyable; Windows, not so much without a mouse! and ful l keyboard. And I suppose that Intel, which has been claiming it will power smartphones this year, can add this as a feather in their cap.

Theres a problem though: Intels 1.2 GHz Atom Z600 chip isunder-clockedto run at 600 MHz in the F-07C and that wont bring stellar performance to the phones Windows personality. Fujitsu could probably boost the chip to run at full speed, but the handset would then use more power and that quoted up to 2 hours of Windows run-time might be closer to one. Even worse, once you run down your battery using Windows, youre stuck without a mobile phone.

Dont get me wrong; the concept of a full computer in your pocket has sounded cool for years. In a world of smartphones and post-PC devices, however, this approach by Fujitsu takes a traditional computer view and some would argue that todays smartphone essentially are pocketable computers. It also exemplifies that some companies still dont understand the mobile space and sadlyappear destined to become mobile losers.

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