Microsoft observer h0x0d recently noticed two job listings for Windows Mobile careers, and they both highlight Microsoft's continued interest in the mobile space.
More notable than the job listings is the language Microsoft used to describe Windows Mobile's position and value to the company, providing further evidence of its long-term strategy.
The job listings include two program manager positions and a senior program manager role within the Windows Mobile division. In one of the listings, Microsoft describes the importance of mobile in its wider strategy, noting that consumers form part of the agenda.
A new "agile" organization is being created within the Windows and Devices Group (WDG) to build out features such as Continuum and to focus on "cutting-edge long-term investments" in the mobile space.
"In the mobile-first, cloud-first world Windows Mobile remains an important and strategic piece for Microsoft. We are uniquely positioned to support our Enterprise customers, OEM and Mobile partners who continue to invest in our platform and the consumers who are adapting connectivity scenarios like Continuum. An agile and nimble organization is being created in the Windows and Devices Group (WDG) to support this charter and deliver on the security, manageability features for Enterprises and consumers and be part of the cutting-edge long-term investments in Mobile."
We talk a lot about "retrenchment" around here, but the situation for Windows 10 Mobile is dire. With almost no marketing, few consumer-facing handsets, and a near-total communication blackout from Redmond, it's no surprise that high-profile services, developers, and OEMs have abandoned the platform.
With the Windows 10 Creators Update ready to ship, all eyes will be on the Build 2017 conference to see if Microsoft shifts gears towards Mobile again. This will likely include features such as CShell, a new design language in Project NEON, and new handsets running full Windows 10, thanks to the upcoming ARM version of the OS. Oh, hey, there's also always the mythical Surface Phone ...
Take a look at the job listings below, and then share your thoughts in the comments.
