eWEEK content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More.
NEWS ANALYSIS: Microsoft says that it wont be building its own Windows Phone and that is a smart move. Microsoft has much to lose and little gain from trying to compete with prospective Windows Phone OEMs. Right now it needs to focus on gathering allies to help grow Windows Phone market share.
An analyst recently said that Microsoft might be considering launching its own Windows Phone handset to compete against the likes of Apples iPhone and the Samsung Galaxy S line. However, the company said in a recent statement that it had no plans to do that and would continue its policy of providing software to third-party vendors. It seems that Microsoft would rather partner with companies like HTC and Nokia, rather than make them competitors.
Its a smart move. Since its inception, Microsoft has decided that making friends with other technology companies is far more profitable than making them enemies. And in the mobile space, despite its troubles, the same policy applies. To change that now and attempt to try its luck in the mobile market would be a huge mistake that could have lasting negative consequences compared to whatever it might gain from marketing its own brand name smartphone.
Here are the reasons why Microsoft shouldnt even consider building its own Windows Phone–based device.
1. Learn from Google
Google has made the somewhat misguided decision to partner with handset makers to deliver its own branded products, known as Nexus. The devices were supposed to showcase the latest version of the companys software, and at least initially, demonstrate the best features. However, the devices were quickly overlooked as better alternatives hit the market. Microsoft shouldnt want any part of that.
2. Vendors wont like it
One of the main reasons Microsoft never offered up its own devices over the years related to its desire to not compete against those who were using its software. The company reasoned that by competing in the hardware space, it might hurt software licensing. It was rightand its why a Windows Phone from the software company would make no sense.
3. Whats the upside?
When the idea of bringing a device into the market is actually considered, what sort of upside can really be found? Yes, companies like Apple and Samsung are successfully and profitably delivering smartphones. But the vast majority are not as successful. Microsoft has enough to worry about with software. At this point, theres no upside compelling enough to make Microsoft market its own handsets.
4. Costs will rise
If Microsoft launched its own smartphone anytime soon, the company would be forced to take on millions in additional research and development and production costs just to get the product to store shelves. That will put pressure on Microsofts profit margins and that wont help Microsofts bottom line or its relations with investors.
Microsoft Handset Could Spoil Nokia Relationship
5. This isnt Windows 8
Microsoft made the surprising decision recently to launch its own Windows 8-based tablet, known as Surface, later this year. Although that might indicate that it could consider launching its own handset, remember that the Surface is designed to establish Microsoft in the tablet marketa space where it has very little presence. In the smartphone market, it has some presence. It needs to allow them to grow over time without too much of its input.
6. The Motorola element
Microsofts decision to not deliver its own Windows Phone-based device might have something to do with Motorola. Earlier this year, Google closed its $12.5 billion Motorola acquisition, making the handset maker a first-party provider of Android-based devices. Theres a chance in the coming years that this will alienate competing Android vendors who might then be more likely to market Windows Phone devices. Meanwhile, Microsoft, with no allegiance to any particular handset maker, would benefit.
7. Remember patent disputes
The mobile space right now is riven by patent disputes related to both software and hardware. On the software side, Microsoft doesnt have much to worry about, and in fact, receives licensing fees from Android vendors. But on hardware, who knows what could happen? Nearly every company is suing another on design. The last thing Microsoft should want to do is expose itself to this patent lawsuit crossfire any more than it has already.
8. It all comes back to end-to-end quality
9. It already has Nokia
Lets not forget that Microsoft has a strong relationship with Nokia. Last year, the companies signed a deal that would see Nokia bundle Windows Phone on its smartphone line. Nokia also will bundle its Maps service in Windows Phone 8. Offering its own hardware might hurt Microsofts relationship with Nokia. Thats the last thing the software giant needs right now.
10. The track record isnt so strong
Save for the Xbox 360, its hard to find any hardware products Microsoft has launched over the years that has been all that successful. From the ill-fated Zune to the Kin smartphones designed for social users, Microsoft doesnt exactly know whats best for hardware. So, why should it embarrass itself even more?
Follow Don Reisinger on Twitter by clicking here