Dedicated Palm OS fans will probably hate this article–but given recent sales figures of Windows Mobile smartphones, plus the dwindling number of available Palm-based handheld releases, Palm OS updates, and new software programs, a lot of customers are considering the switch to a phone running Microsoft’s mobile OS.

Recently, Windows Mobile has exploded in popularity, with slim and sexy devices like the Q, the Dash, and the BlackJack, not to mention touch-screen Pocket PC handsets such as the Cingular 8525. And despite misgivings, Windows Mobile 6 looks to continue Microsoft’s domination of the smartphone market. With this in mind, here are some tips for the Palm OS faithful who are thinking of buying a Microsoft-based handheld.