After wooing developers and convincing Nokia to ditch MeeGo for Windows Phone 7, Microsoft has proven that the company still has relevance in the new mobile world that the masses are embracing.
While Windows Phone 7 will probably steal the bronze away from Blackberry (at least as far as apps are concerned), in order to challenge both Android and iOS, Microsoft will need to rethink its approach to mobile.
Instead of trying to challenge iPad 2 and end up fighting for second place, Microsoft should instead try to make another stab at the mp3 market by releasing a WP7 device minus the phone.
Why A Phone-less Device?
Microsoft may have a very difficult time convincing iPhone lovers and Android geeks to try Windows Phone 7, let alone ditch their respective platforms for it.
Creating an iPod Touch rival could not only help add some extra cash for the Redmond giant, but allow users to experience the OS without having to chain themselves to another carrier.
More Devices, More Developers
If Microsoft can match or beat iPod Touch device prices, then they could give more developers a reason to create more apps upon the device (especially those looking for an option beyond iOS).
This could help the company attract quality developers from iOS, enabling Microsoft to compete against Apple (let alone Android) as well as thwart upcoming rivals like webOS from HP.
Reviving The Zune Store
Between Amazon and Apple there are not too many decent options available for fans of music, books, movies and ring tones (and no folks, Google doesn’t count).
If Microsoft released a WP7 device sans the phone part they could not only expand their market share, but convince publishers and artists to sell their goods through the Redmond giant’s store.
This would not only help create a new source of revenue for Microsoft, but also help provide some much needed ompetition between Apple and Amazon.
Should Microsoft Create A WP7 Zune Device?
With Microsoft retiring the Zune, Microsoft needs a new product that will appeal to those unwilling (or unable) to purchase a smartphone.
While releasing a phone-less WP7 device would not guarantee its success, failing to do so would leave the entire market in Apple’s hands, giving their old foe another arena to dominate in unchallenged by Google or Mircosoft.
Originally posted on March 17, 2011 @ 4:27 pm