One of Microsoft’s new prototypes, which was loaded with “tons” of top-secret software, features and early bugs was pick-pocketed from an unnamed executive in Barcelona, a city known for having the best thieves in the world.
Telegraph reports: But within hours of announcing the launch of Windows Mobile 6.5 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, a phone fitted with the new generation software was stolen from an executive’s pocket.
The theft will no doubt embarrass Australian telecommunications giant, Telstar, whose CEO Sol Trujillo was reportedly given the device by Microsoft to test the system ahead of the launch.
He in turn handed the top secret product to an unnamed executive who was pick-pocketed during an evening function at the trade convention.
A spokesman for the Australian company confirmed the theft had happened. “One of our product executives was given the phone to test the system. He had it with him at an organised evening event and it was stolen from him – we don’t know by whom.”
There are fears that leaks regarding the features and early bugs in the software could mar the launch of Windows Mobile 6.5 which the company hopes will give it the edge over the iPhone and the new Google Android operating system. The new product includes support for touch-screen technology similar to that found on the Apple iPhone.
Among the features offered in the new service unveiled by Microsoft’s chief executive, Steve Ballmer, on Tuesday, is a version of Windows Marketplace for Mobiles, which is set to compete with the popular Apple’s App Store and provide easy ways to download music and products to mobiles.
“I’m not clear on what the security implications of the theft will be,” said the Telstar spokesman. “That is for Microsoft to say.”
As Fortune notes, Barcelona is known for having the best pick-pocketing thieves in the world. So, while the news is shocking, after it resonates for a second, it is understandable.
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