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Microsoft Unveils Enhanced Windows Phone Software, Code-Named Mango

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft is set to launch a new version of its Windows Phone software, code-named Mango, which includes an enhanced Twitter connection, hands-free messaging, and an in-box for multiple e-mail accounts. The software, to be released this fall, will feature 500 added features and will be available on phones produced by new partners Acer Inc, Fujitsu Ltd, and ZTE Corp, as well as previously announced partners like Nokia Oyj. Microsoft is rushing to bolster its phone features after its current operating system, Windows Phone 7, failed to meet sales projections.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft is introducing a new version of its Windows Phone software, code-named Mango, with 500 added features.
  • The new software will include an enhanced Twitter connection, hands-free messaging, and an in-box for multiple e-mail accounts.
  • Mango will be available on phones produced by new partners Acer Inc, Fujitsu Ltd, and ZTE Corp, as well as previously announced partners like Nokia Oyj.
  • Microsoft is banking on reaching more users than before, with the software being available in additional countries at lower prices than the current Windows Phone 7.
  • The software will have support for languages, including simplified and traditional Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Korean.
  • Mango will include facial-recognition software, speech-to-text features, and the ability to switch between text messages, Facebook chat, and Windows instant messages within the same conversation.
  • Current Windows Phone manufacturers HTC Corp, Samsung Electronics Co, and LG Electronics Inc will also make phones with Mango.

Statistics:

  • Microsoft shipped more than 2 million copies of its Windows Phone software in the December quarter.
  • Microsoft's share of the mobile operating system market fell to 3.6 per cent in the first quarter from 6.8 per cent in the year-earlier period.
  • Android rose nearly fourfold to 36 per cent from 9.6 per cent, while Apple's iOS climbed to 17 per cent from 15 per cent.
  • Microsoft's shares have dropped 13 per cent this year.

Sources:

  • Microsoft, statement.
  • Andy Lees, president of Microsoft's mobile business, at a company event.
  • Gartner Inc.
  • I Media LLC 2011.

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