As soon as Microsoft unveiled Windows Mobile 6.1, owners of Windows Mobile 6 devices started to ask if and when they would be able to upgrade their devices. Brighthand got in touch with Hewlett-Packard and asked them the very question. Chances are that you won’t like the answer. Mike Hockey, Hewlett-Packard’s Worldwide Public Relations Manager, has indicated that HP will not offer any upgrades for devices currently shipping. The following explanation was provided:
This decision comes after having evaluated the potential for delays in firmware and software updates, device recertification, and carry-over costs to our customers that are often associated with an operating system upgrade.
Don’t lose hope though. HP does indicate that future iPAQs (perhaps even that yet-to-be-seen iPAQ 900 Business Messenger series?) will ship with Windows Mobile 6.1. See, it’s not hopeless; all you have to do is buy a new device.