Microsoft Unveils Windows Phone 7 Series, Aiming to Revive Mobile Fortunes

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer unveiled the Windows Phone 7 Series at the Mobile World Congress, a move aimed at reversing the company's declining fortunes in the mobile market. The new operating system is designed to provide a more user-friendly and engaging experience, with a focus on the consumer. Microsoft's global partners, including major wireless carriers and phone makers, are set to launch devices based on this new operating system by the 2010 holiday season.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Windows Phone 7 Series is a significant overhaul of the Windows Mobile operating system, with a "full reboot" that scrubs most of what came before. (Source: Analyst Michael Gartenberg)
  • Microsoft is shifting its focus to the consumer, taking a more holistic approach to the user experience, including designing the "soft" keyboard on touch-screen phones. (Source: Aaron Woodman, Microsoft)
  • The new operating system features "live tiles" on the Start screens that display dynamic, real-time content, and every Windows phone will have a dedicated hardware button for Bing search. (Source: Microsoft)
  • Apps will be available through the Windows Marketplace, but Microsoft is emphasizing "hubs," which are built around specific themes and activities, with related content from the Web and apps. (Source: Microsoft)
  • The "people" hub will bring together pictures and feeds from friends, while the "games" hub will incorporate Xbox Live games and leader boards. (Source: Microsoft)
  • Other themed hubs will focus on music and videos, pictures, and Office productivity. (Source: Microsoft)

Statistics:

  • Microsoft has secured partnerships with over 20 major wireless carriers and phone makers, including AT&T, Deustche Telekom, Orange, Sprint, and Vodafone. (Source: Microsoft)
  • Devices based on the Windows Phone 7 Series operating system will be available by the 2010 holiday season. (Source: Steve Ballmer, Microsoft)
  • The new operating system is designed to provide a more user-friendly and engaging experience, with a focus on the consumer. (Source: Aaron Woodman, Microsoft)

Sources:

  • Analyst Michael Gartenberg
  • Steve Ballmer, Microsoft
  • Aaron Woodman, Microsoft
  • Microsoft Corporation
  • Microsoft press release, Mobile World Congress 2010
  • Contify.com
  • Euclid Infotech 2010