Looks like one of the huge differences between the Apple iPhone and every other smartphone is getting smaller. However, I cannot help but wonder, “Is SkyFire an embarrassment to Microsoft or a triumph to 3rd party developers?”

Skyfire gives hope to Windows Mobile users of having a desktop like browsing experience on their mobile phones. Highlights include Flash support, Google Maps and Youtube.

Skyfire is not simply a mobile phone browser, but a service that provides a better browsing experience. Be sure to double check the Skyfire Privacy Policy to see if you are comfortable with Skyfire processing and having acces to all of your data.

Another aspect of the Skyfire private beta announcement just makes me wonder about Microsoft. Why does it take a company less than two years old to bring to Windows Mobile what should have been there from the start?

Currently Skyfire is available for Windows Mobile devices (versions 5 and 6) with US phone numbers, but Skyfire expects a Symbian based version to arrive later this year. You can sign up for the private beta here.