Microsoft policy gives Google a mobile advantage

Microsoft's decision to force a manager out for talking about the Nokia Lumia 800 early has inadvertently given Google an advantage. Former web platform head Joe Marini said Monday that he had started working at Google less than a month after choosing to resign rather be fired. He is now a developer advocate, focusing primarily on Google's mobile app platform for Android as well as web platforms that include Android, iOS, and other competitors.

Marini noted that his time would be split between San Francisco and Seattle. He further planned to reveal in more detail what had happened behind the scenes to make him leave. It's commonly understood, though not confirmed, that Marini chose to quit before he could be fired for violating a policy on divulging details through social media.

The firing may have inadvertently cost Microsoft a valuable resource at a time when its mobile market share is sliding. It has had a problem with Google poaching staff primarily for search, but with Marini's loss will now have seen staff going directly to the Android team. [via LiveSide]

By Electronista Staff