Generally the news coming out an event like Mobile World Congress is buzz-worthy and exciting, filled with cutting edge hardware and software solutions… but leave it to Microsoft to break the mould, and good on them! Some people would argue that if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em (speaking specifically about high-end hardware manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei), but that strategy isn’t without risk. Coming somewhat late to the mobile device game, Microsoft understands that the success means growth, but how? Find the consumers currently being left out and deliver something usable and affordable.
To this end, Microsoft was delighted to brag about the growth of their Windows Phone ecosystem –while also debuting a lineup of cheap and cheerful smartphones.
Many of these new smartphones have underwhelming specs and come from manufacturers we’ve barely heard of (at least without employing a quick Google search). Does that really matter? Ultimately it comes down to mobile market share, which in turn motivates and engages developers, making it possible to create a more enviable and valuable platform. You never forget your first is a philosophy that applies here as well… everybody finds comfort in the familiar, so the trick is getting them a Windows Phone before any other.
It’s a gamble of course, but could also be a lucrative long-term investment.
Let’s think logically here:
Do you give you kids a device with a pricetag that rivals your monthly rent or would you prefer something dramatically less expensive while also being waterproof and dust-proof like the 4.5-inch Coship BVC L08 LTE smartphone?
Don’t forget that Microsoft isn’t the first mobile manufacturer to attempt this kind of stunt. Android used to enjoy being the undisputed king of distributing low-end devices anywhere and everywhere in an effort to persuade statistics in their favour –letting them boast about Android activations, even it most of those smartphones don’t subscribe to an actual data plan.
Jillian Koskie is an experienced software developer, content writer, project manager and usability design expert. With over 17 years in these roles, Jillian has enjoyed applying her skill-set to assist clients and users across a wide variety of sectors including: legal, health, and financial services. Combining these professional opportunities with a love of technology, Jillian is pleased to contribute articles, opinions, and advice to numerous news outlets, websites, and publications.