Last night, I pulled $300 out of my wallet and bought the Motorola MPx200 Smartphone, which runs Microsoft software. This was no easy purchase as I own a Sony Ericsson T616 phone that I am more than satisfied with.

But, I do cover Microsoft for Jupiter Research and really wanted to see the MPx200 and Microsoft’s Windows Mobile software in action. AT&T Wireless has a 30-day return policy should the phone turn out to be a bust; overnight experimenting with features suggests I’ll keep the phone and hand the T616 over to my wife.

Some early observations: The MPx200 isn’t for everyone. The software is as much data-centric as phone-oriented. For people that want to do lots of SMS, instant messaging or Web surfing from a cell phone, Microsoft’s software serves up good features. Phone features are good, but I find the T616 more straightforward for making calls or receiving them. The MPx 200's display resolution is refreshingly clear and crisp.

I don’t intend to do a review and will stop the comparison there. But, I will share my ongoing experiences with the MPx200 over the coming weeks. Interestingly, while attracted to the MPx200’s many features, my main concern was the phone capabilities. In the Jupiter Research report, "Next-Generation Handsets: How to Succeed in Wireless Without Really Converging," colleague Avi Greengart addresses some of the foibles of multi-function devices in the U.S. market. I’m interested how well the MPx200 compares to Avi’s astute conclusions about what makes a good cell phone for the U.S. market.