I'm sure Microsoft is quite aware that Nokia's imaging capabilities will soon be going Android. That's why Microsoft already approached Canon. I'm sure folks at Redmond are trying to build something extra and don't rely exclusively on a technology that is no longer exclusive to their phone and can, at any moment, show up in the competition.
On the other hand, we've seen Microsoft do some really stupid stuff in the recent past...so although I say "I'm sure" I think it's more "I really hope". I like Windows Phone 8.1 and although I wish Microsoft Mobile to crash and burn, I do wish the OS to thrive with other OEMs. And if we can get rid of iOS in the process...great =P
IOS won't be going anywhere, anytime soon, nor will Android. I can see WP going away as we know it though, especially if Microsoft doesn't start make some fundamental changes in the os.
I know that doesn't sit well with you or any other hater of the other platforms, but minute increases of market share is not enough to sustain the platform.
Apple has realized this fact, and has started changing the way it does things allowing the user choice while keeping the os secure. Microsoft doesn't have a choice but to follow a suitable path if it wants to see it's sales grow exponentially.
I know that you and others will argue that this isn't necessary, but 85% of the world says that it is.
It won't matter how many apps that the store has, if the functionality of the most wanted apps aren't there so a good user experience isn't there.
I truly like WP and want to see it flourish but forcing developers to utilize the IE and Xbox engine, as well as keeping the rest locked down is not going to convince people to invest in it as much as the other platforms.
When small things bug people enough over time, they start looking for a replacement phone. Companies have to go outside of their normal control groups to see what people think and want. Apple did this, and also listened to its customers.. and the changes are coming. Watch how many units are sold as a result of this.
Microsoft did a great thing getting this phone onto the platform, but it alone is not enough to make a great difference.
I fully understand that many people hate to see Microsoft change and become more Android or Apple like, but the sad reality of this is that is exactly what the vast majority of people want.....
Ask yourself this.... How hard would it be for Microsoft to allow different browser and music and video player engines extentions to function properly and still keep it sandboxed and the same for the ui.... A simple little bit of freedom of choice for the customer can pay back huge dividends.
Purest will hate it of course, that is to be expected, but as long as it allows you to choose and still keep it as you like it, to criticize the changes and do something childish like leaving the platform is counter productive to the platform as I have seen some here post.
I look forward to seeing some changes take place as long as they at least have the forethought to leave the descion to the customer on utilizing it.
Posted via Windows Phone Central App