Microsoft at its TechEd conference has confirmed the impending launch of Internet Explorer Mobile 6, the next major version of its cellphone browser. Originally announced in February, the significantly delayed update is available to test in emulator form and has also detailed all the major changes due with the web suite. The software aims to resolve many of the often-criticized features of the legacy browser from Windows Mobile 6 and starts with an accurate HTML renderer that displays websites the way they would appear on a desktop. Users can even change their user agent to force a desktop view instead of a mobile-optimized site.
The software uses a selection box to zoom in and out on direction pad only phones but will add more advanced touchscreen support, including panning and finger-based gestures. It also carries Flash Lite 3.1 built-in for animation and videos as well as better JavaScript and deeper ties with online searches.
Microsoft hasn't committed to any more specific release date for the IE Mobile 6 update but notes that Windows Mobile phones will come preloaded with the new browser "soon." It should also be a staple feature of Windows Mobile 6.5 when it ships in the future.
The improvement to Microsoft's browser is considered an important part of Microsoft's turnaround for Windows Mobile, which is being increasingly outsold by smartphones with better web browsers, including BlackBerries and iPhones. Those relying on Windows Mobile have also taken to bundling third-party browsers in a bid to improve the browsing experience. Both the HTC Touch Diamond and Sony Ericsson Xperia X1 use Opera for web use by default.
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