I'm having a really hard time understanding why Microsoft couldn't work out a similar update arrangement with the carriers. I know everyone believes Apple had more muscle to influence them, but when the iPhone was released, its not like they had a market presence in mobile phones, so how were they able to strong arm Att into submission? Verizon wouldn't have them at first.
I think it all boils down to commitment and resolve. Microsoft can't seem to muster enough or decide to settle in situations like these.