iPhone 4S Release Date: Microsoft's Andy Lees Not a Fan
Recent comments from Microsoft's "Windows Phone" Division Head Andy Lees plugs his smartphone and update, while also putting down Apple's upcoming "iPhone 4S."
Andy Lees had this to say on the "iPhone 4S" according to The Seattle Times: "From a pure hardware perspective, I was surprised they’re not giving the consumer more choice. People want a variety of things."
He also offered his opinion on the Android-based smartphones currently on the market: "I think Android is heading down this chaotic phase. If you’ve used some of the (Android) phones, some of them are great, but some of them are not great. But it’s random."
Microsoft has enabled its "Mango" ("Windows Phone 7.5") OS to work on its smartphones on Sept. 27. The "Mango" software update offers about 500 tweaks and new features. Some say it will give the Windows platform the momentum it needs to rival both Apple’s iOS and Google Android.
The company has recently signed significant deals with companies, like Nokia, to produce a wide variety of "Windows Phone" Mango devices for the future. Samsung, HTC, LG Electronics, Acer and ZTE are some of the other companies tapped to create Windows smartphones.
Andy Lees stated in a separate interview with AllThingsD that dual-core and LTE-supported mobile devices are on the way for his company.
More mobile carriers should become more eager to promote the "Windows Phone" if the above plans go through.
Cheaper smartphone models will be produced alongside its expensive counterparts. Lees went on to state that while handset makers and the carriers determine prices and subsidies, consumers should see "Windows Phone" devices for less than $100 in the U.S.
Michael Gartner, an analyst at Gartner Inc., forecasts that Microsoft will become the No. 2 smartphone operating system by 2015.
The introduction of new smartphone models, hardware configurations and software updates may lead to more sales and attention for the "Windows Phone."
