Sprint plans to upgrade several of its current Windows Mobile smartphones later this year to support Windows Mobile 6.1 announced today by Microsoft. Windows Mobile 6.1, an update release, will bring customers core platform enhancements in the areas of user-focused experience, messaging and productivity.

In the summer of 2008, Sprint will offer software upgrades for all existing Sprint Windows Mobile 6 smartphones, including:

• Samsung ACE
• Moto Q9c by Motorola
• Touch by HTC
• Mogul by HTC

In addition, all of Sprint’s new Windows Mobile smartphones launching in the second half of 2008 will offer Windows Mobile 6.1 software, including a new Palm Treo launching later this year. Additional details will be announced upon commercial availability.

Windows Mobile 6.1 will bring new time-saving features, easier phone navigation and management, and stronger security safeguards. To further enhance the user experience, this update allows device makers to change some of the look and feel of the interface to create more customization. As part of the 6.1 upgrade, handsets will also support enterprise-class device security management through Microsoft’s System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008 server.