Sync up with Windows Mobile Device Center

To coincide nicely with the release of Vista RC2 just the other day, Microsoft has released the 3rd beta of the Windows Mobile Device Center, so, for all you Vista users, who have a Windows Mobile device, either 2003 or WM5, get on over to the download page to get a piece of the action.

So, what's it all about?

Well, as the screenshot shows, it provides complete management of your device, from a simple, easy to use interface.  The first time you connect your device, you are asked if you would like to set up your device, or simply connect to it without setting up.  When it says setting up, it means syncronising with Outlook, with such things as Calendar, Tasks, Contacts etc.

I then get to choose which items I wish to sync, including items from OneNote...

All that is left to do, is name the Device, and create the partnership between my PC and my SmartPhone, and the result, pops up in the corner of the screen...

So, Mobile Device Center is incredibly easy to set up, and to start using and makes managing your handset a doddle.  From the main Device Center window, you have simple and quick access to Programs and Services, allowing me to find upgrades and other downloads on the web; Pictures, Music and Video - allowing easy importing/exporting/tagging of pictures/movies/music and you can also easily add media to your device from Windows Media Player.  You can also manage your files on your handset, easily browsing the contents of your phone just as you would a folder on your machine.

Features include:

• Streamlined setup - A simplified new partnership wizard and improved partnership management.
• Robust synchronization - Synchronization of business-critical data such as e-mail, calendars, contacts, tasks, favorites, and files.
• Photo management - Picture management helps you detect new photos on your Windows Mobile powered device, tag and import them to the Windows Vista Photo Gallery.
• Media synchronization – Use Microsoft Windows Media Player to synchronize and shuffle music files on your device.
• File browsing - A new device browsing experience enables you more quickly browse files and folders and open documents on your device directly from your PC.
• Enhanced user interface – A simple and compelling user interface helps you to quickly access critical tasks and configure your device.

Seeing as I'm feeling generous, I've decided to provide you with the links to the actual downloads, so you don't even have to visit the download page!  Here they are:

• Windows Mobile Device Center Beta 3 (x86) (Worldwide English)
• Windows Mobile Device Center Beta 3 (x64) (Worldwide English)

Happy downloading, and even happier sync-ing!