Hi everyone,
Over the past several weeks I have begun noticing a trend in mobile where apps are becoming less of an issue for users. Don't mistake me for stating "apps don't matter", no, they matter a lot. There's no doubting that Windows Phone crossed an important milestone when it secured Instagram, Flipboard, Vine and Path. Moreover, it is imperative that Microsoft continue making an effort towards winning over developers to support Windows Phone, especially start ups and emerging vendors, it's absolutely vital.
However, there is another element which is beginning to creep up. Experiences.
What do I mean by 'experiences?' Well, consider Google Now, PureView, Siri, etc. These are not standalone applications that accomplish a specific task, they're integrated with our reality and needs! Based on that, you'll notice the mindshare rise of peripherals such as smart watches and smart lenses. However, watches and glasses are only the tip of the surface. Beneath first party development by Microsoft, Apple and Google there is a growing world of third party 'experience developers.' Think Fitbit, Nike, Adidas, etc.
Don't mistake these things as just peripherals. These things will alter consumer behaviour, and in turn, alter consumer expectations and developer objectives.
Let me give you an example. Stylus maker Adonit and Evernote got together to develop and release a pen with palm blocking for iOS devices (link). Folks, this is a game changer. It negates some of the key advantages of the Surface Pro and raises consumer expectations in regards to not only tablets, but potentially phones as well!
Fortunately for Microsoft, the shift here is at an early stage. I hope Microsoft is aware of it though, if it engages with Evernote/Adonit, Fitbit, Adidas and others early on, it may be able to pull ahead of the competition. The Surface Blades seem to indicate some within Microsoft are aware of the shift, but they need to get third party providers to back WP in this regard.
Over the past several weeks I have begun noticing a trend in mobile where apps are becoming less of an issue for users. Don't mistake me for stating "apps don't matter", no, they matter a lot. There's no doubting that Windows Phone crossed an important milestone when it secured Instagram, Flipboard, Vine and Path. Moreover, it is imperative that Microsoft continue making an effort towards winning over developers to support Windows Phone, especially start ups and emerging vendors, it's absolutely vital.
However, there is another element which is beginning to creep up. Experiences.
What do I mean by 'experiences?' Well, consider Google Now, PureView, Siri, etc. These are not standalone applications that accomplish a specific task, they're integrated with our reality and needs! Based on that, you'll notice the mindshare rise of peripherals such as smart watches and smart lenses. However, watches and glasses are only the tip of the surface. Beneath first party development by Microsoft, Apple and Google there is a growing world of third party 'experience developers.' Think Fitbit, Nike, Adidas, etc.
Don't mistake these things as just peripherals. These things will alter consumer behaviour, and in turn, alter consumer expectations and developer objectives.
Let me give you an example. Stylus maker Adonit and Evernote got together to develop and release a pen with palm blocking for iOS devices (link). Folks, this is a game changer. It negates some of the key advantages of the Surface Pro and raises consumer expectations in regards to not only tablets, but potentially phones as well!
Fortunately for Microsoft, the shift here is at an early stage. I hope Microsoft is aware of it though, if it engages with Evernote/Adonit, Fitbit, Adidas and others early on, it may be able to pull ahead of the competition. The Surface Blades seem to indicate some within Microsoft are aware of the shift, but they need to get third party providers to back WP in this regard.
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