Migrating from Windows Mobile to BlackBerry

I've been using Windows Mobile for many years and I have not had to think about migrating to a different operating system. Now that I'm switching to the BlackBerry Storm, I have to get all my data ready so that I don't lose any critical data.

Step 1:

So, the first stage in migrating from Windows Mobile to BlackBerry is to ensure that all my critical Personal Information Management (PIM) data is preserved. Since I use Microsoft Outlook, that's easy. All of my calendar and contact info should synchronize just fine.

Step 2:

None of my Windows Mobile applications (or apps) will run on BlackBerry, but I can probably find some equivalents. I'll start with medical apps such as Epocrates and other medical references. Then, I'll play around with GPS navigation and Twitter apps. I also plan to test PdaNet for tethering.

Step 3:

Accessories. I won't be purchasing any accessories until I'm certain that I'll be keeping my new Storm. Since the Storm uses a micro USB data/charging port, I won't need to get any proprietary chargers. I may also get some micro-to-mini USB converters that will allow me to use all my old mini USB chargers.

Well, let's see how the next few weeks go as I switch to BlackBerry. Expect many BlackBerry-oriented blog posts from me unless I decide to switch back to Windows Mobile.

Why I didn't get the Samsung Omnia on VZW

It's time to get a new phone. I'm on Verizon Wireless, so my options are limited. I thought that I was going to get the Samsung Omnia (which is a great phone, but now the phone for me), but here are the reasons why I didn't get it:

1. It's now on closeout at Verizon Wireless. This means they won't be getting any more new ones. What they have is it. They're now waiting for the Omnia 2.
   
2. I doubt we'll see Windows 6.5 for it (unless you load a custom ROM).
   
3. No built-in stylus. Instead, it has this stylus that hangs on a dongle. Since it's a passive touch screen device running Windows Mobile, there are times when you definitely need to use a stylus.
4. Proprietary charger/connector. I thought we were all supposed to be using micro USB. I really don't want to go out and get new chargers/adapters. I want my next device to have micro USB so that I can use all my existing mini USB chargers (with a mini USB to micro USB adapter).
5. Too expensive. I can get the BlackBerry Storm for free. Why pay an extra $100 for the Omnia?
   

Don't get me wrong now. The Samsung Omnia is a great phone and the Omnia 2 is going to be an even better phone, but these small things make it a "no go" for me. Therefore, I'm left really with one option: the BlackBerry Storm. I've been a Windows Mobile user since the early days of Windows CE. Time to make the switch.

Palm Pre Reviewed by Engadget

Have you seen the Palm Pre review on Engadget? They always do a great job with their reviews. You get plenty of images and screen shots. We already know that the keyboard buttons are small. WebOS is an entirely new operating system and I think I need to get it in my own hands before I made a judgement about the "cards" on the Pre. I'm also glad to see Palm using the standard microUSB port on this device. I admit that I'll miss using all my miniUSB peripherals. So, are you ready to switch to Sprint? Will you wait until the Pre is available on you mobile carrier? To read the full Engadget review, click here. Image source: Engadget