MSNDirect-home1 MSN Direct has been available for certain devices such as watches and GPS navigators, but it has never found a proper place on a mobile phone. Microsoft is remedying this by launch MSN Direct for Windows Mobile, a home screen plugin and application for Windows Mobile devices (WM5 and over, smartphone devices only so far). At the moment, weather, news and stocks channel are available. Instead of relying on FM transmissions, MSN Direct for Windows Mobile wisely relies on the phone’s data connection such as wi-fi or 3G, allowing you to receive updates in any cities whether you are covered by regular MSN Direct or not.

The interface looks very pleasant, and it integrates well to existing home screens. Pressing left and right while highlighting the plugin will let you scroll between weather, news and stock. Press ok to get more detailed information. There are plenty of third-party options available, but they are not easy to install nor to configure. This new MSN Direct for Windows Mobile is a must install for all users, especially given the fact that it is free.

Point your mobile phone’s browser to http://phone.msndirect.com or go there with regular browser and use ActiveSync or Windows Mobile Device Center on Vista to install the application.

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