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Analyst Rick Sherlund claims Microsoft is considering designing its own smartphone to kickstart sales of Windows Phone 8 handsets.
Many punters have speculated about a possible Microsoft phone, but unlike most of them, Sherlund has quite a bit of experience when it comes to Redmond. He has been covering the company since it went public in 1986, so his opinion has quite a bit of weight.
"Our industry sources tell us that Microsoft may be working with a contract manufacturer to develop their own handset for Windows Phone 8," wrote Sherlund.
However, Sherlund is still not sure whether Microsoft is working on a reference design or a true Microsoft-branded phone.
Following the launch of Microsoft’s Surface tablet, both options sound plausible. The move could pit Microsoft toe-to-toe with Apple, not to mention Samsung, Google and other Android players.
Of course, Windows Phone 8 is still months away and if indeed Microsoft is working on a phone, it is highly unlikely we will hear official confirmation anytime soon. We assume Microsoft will tread very carefully, as it does not need another Kin debacle on its hands.
More here.
Published in
Mobiles
Analyst: Microsoft could be designing its own phone
To kickstart Windows Phone 8 sales
Analyst Rick Sherlund claims Microsoft is considering designing its own smartphone to kickstart sales of Windows Phone 8 handsets.
Many punters have speculated about a possible Microsoft phone, but unlike most of them, Sherlund has quite a bit of experience when it comes to Redmond. He has been covering the company since it went public in 1986, so his opinion has quite a bit of weight.
"Our industry sources tell us that Microsoft may be working with a contract manufacturer to develop their own handset for Windows Phone 8," wrote Sherlund.
However, Sherlund is still not sure whether Microsoft is working on a reference design or a true Microsoft-branded phone.
Following the launch of Microsoft’s Surface tablet, both options sound plausible. The move could pit Microsoft toe-to-toe with Apple, not to mention Samsung, Google and other Android players.
Of course, Windows Phone 8 is still months away and if indeed Microsoft is working on a phone, it is highly unlikely we will hear official confirmation anytime soon. We assume Microsoft will tread very carefully, as it does not need another Kin debacle on its hands.
More here.