LG, Microsoft tie up in Windows Mobile deal
updated 07:45 am EST, Mon November 3, 2008
LG and MS Win Mobile Deal
LG and Microsoft this morning said they have both signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a strategic link between the two companies in mobile devices. The deal will see the two companies team up in research and development of devices as well as the creation of apps, devices, and marketing campaigns. LG makes clear that the deal centers around Windows Mobile and will take advantage of Microsoft's software experience.
The deal gives LG "critical momentum" in treating cellphones as mobile computers, according to LG chief Yong Nam, who signed the Memorandum along with Microsoft head Steve Ballmer.
No mention has been made of any financial transactions as part of the agreement.
Reaching a deal with LG is potentially critical to Microsoft, which has been struggling to increase its share of the smartphone market after inroads by Apple and Research in Motion as well as the introduction of Google's Android platform, which has seen potential shifts away from Windows Mobile by ASUS and Motorola as they consider the low-cost, open-source operating system as an alternative to either Microsoft's legacy mobile software or to limited, non-smartphone operating systems.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2005
A "deal?" Hardly!
Yeah, I definitely wouldn't call marrying a loathed, failing mobile OS to your hardware a deal. I don't care what price you get it at, it's just going to lead to the cancer that kills you in the end.
Of course, what other real alternatives would LG have at this point? With the iPhone looming, taking over the market, you've got to do something. Perhaps this "deal" is more an issue of desperation.
Good luck to them, all the same.