We’ve known (unofficially) for some time now that Microsoft has been working on various follow-ups to Windows Mobile 6.5. ROMs based off of 6.5.x builds of Windows Mobile have been floating around XDA and other similar sites for months, but we hadn’t seen anything official from Microsoft (or even semi-official) ... until now.

MSDN (the Microsoft Developer Network) Web site is where developers go for documentation on various APIs and methods for creating applications for Microsoft products. The documentation for the Widget Engine in Windows Mobile 6.5 makes reference to the changes that we’ve seen with the softkeys and menus in 6.5.x ROMs. The quote states: “Beginning with the Windows Mobile 6.5.3 release, touchable tiles replace soft keys. For developers, the change from soft keys to touchable tiles is automatic starting with Windows Mobile 6.5.3. All of the following applies to touchable tiles and to soft keys.”

This may not seem like much of a mention, but the timing of this discovery may be significant. With Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer scheduled for the opening Keynote at CES next week, might we get some details on where Windows Mobile is headed? We’ll be there to keep you posted.

The buzz is starting to grow among developers as we continue to wait for the official launch of Windows Marketplace for Mobile, and with it the launch of Windows Mobile 6.5.

The Microsoft Developers Network has opened developers forums, and the chatter is growing. Threads so far include "Do you have to use Microsoft's Development Tools?", "Wishlist for Windows Mobile Marketplace", "When can we expect a WM 6.5 SDK?", and a slew of others.

Most end users probably won't get too much out of it, but it's an interesting look at what goes on behind the scenes.

It's the calm before the storm. CTIA's Spring convention is coming in just a couple of short weeks and we're expecting big things (like Windows Mobile 6.1?). WMExperts will be there to keep you apprised of all the excitement, so no fretting about that. In the meantime, news in the Windows Mobile world might slow down a wee bit. No worries, though, we've got reviews and howtos aplenty to keep you busy.

Still and all, what's a news junky to do? How about check out some newly redesigned sites in the WM ecosystem? HTC's site has a new look -- you should definitely head over and sign up for their e-club to be able to grab updates for your device. Also sporting a new look is Microsoft's Windows Mobile Developer Center. It's always been chock-full of development tips and tricks, now they're just easier to find.