Many third-party software developers build enterprise and consumer applications for both BlackBerry and Windows Mobile. When we checked the site of the leading mobile-content provider, Handango, it had more than 950 software titles available for download for BlackBerry. The Windows Mobile-powered T-Mobile Dash offers 702 titles. But that's just the Smartphone/Standard version of the operating system. More than 13,000 Pocket PC/Professional programs are available on the site; however, these more robust devices tend to be more expensive.
 
In general, the most popular applications tend to be offered for both operating systems. For example, WorldMate 2006 Professional Edition (a business travel tool) and IM+ (an all-in-one instant-messaging program), and Ringtone Megaplex are among the top ten downloads for both Windows Mobile and BlackBerry.
 
When you look at the other popular downloads for WM, it's easy to see the OS' strengths and weaknesses. HandiTV and PocketStreamer Deluxe beef up WM's already robust multimedia capabilities, while an app like SBSH Facade 1.2 makes the Home screen more practical by enabling you to view your upcoming appointments and tasks at a glance and to create shortcuts.
 
BlackBerry is only now starting to become more multimedia-friendly for developers, with the addition of several games, but it's easy to see that productivity is still the platform's strength when you look at other top-ten downloads like eOffice Professional Edition, eSpell, and VoiceControl.

 

WINNER: Windows Mobile 6
You'll be able to add almost anything you could possibly want or need to your BlackBerry or WM6 smart phone. Still, Windows Mobile has a wider variety of apps, especially for touchscreen-driven devices.


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