Nokia's decision to adopt Windows Phone over Android is looking an increasingly sound one owing to Apple's recent patent victory over Samsung in the US.
That's according to various industry analysts, who believe Apple's intention to defend its IP vigorously Samsung ordered to pay the company $1 billion in damages could see manufacturers raise Windows Phone's profile in a bid to avoid future lawsuits.
A matter of priorities
In short, Microsoft and Nokia's combined patent library presents Windows Phone as a secure alternative to Android for firms not relishing the prospect of taking on Apple in the law courts.
What's more, given many Android OEMs already pay Microsoft a fee for every device manufacturered, it may be more economical to court the Redmond giant by making Windows Phone handsets a priority.
"I am sure that vendors in the Android ecosystem are wondering how long it will be before they become Apples target," said Gartner's Carolina Milanesi on the subject.
"This might sway some vendors to look at Windows Phone 8 as an alternative, and for the ones like HTC and even Samsung, who have already announced plans to bring to market a WP8 device, how much stronger their investment should be."
Making the switch
Windows Phone currently accounts for around 3 percent of the smartphone market according to the most recent indicators, though its hand is expected to surpass that of even iOS in the years ahead.
Asymco's Horace Dediu believes Apple's victory over Samsung could result in Windows Phone gaining vital momentum against Android, too.
"With Windows phones, youre protected against IP lawsuits because, if anybody sues, they are going to talk with Microsoft," he said.
"Microsoft can do that because they actually do have their IP pretty well sorted out. What Microsoft has always had trouble with is getting these vendors to switch.
"Microsoft can go in to all these accounts and say, 'Let us remind you again of the cost of Android'."
Lumia love
In terms of pure sales, a potential ban on Samsung smartphones in the US could also benefit Nokia as it prepares to launch its new Windows Phone 8-equipped Lumia handsets.
Samsung was Apple's closest rival in the region, but for consumers looking to avoid iPhone, Nokia's Lumia range may become the default alternative if the Korean firm is temporarily removed from the picture.
"A potential sales ban on Samsung products will create some additional room for Nokia as it is preparing to ship the new lineup of Lumia devices over the next couple of months," concluded FIM Bank analyst Michael Schroeder.
[source: Bloomberg]
News
With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.
Related Articles
News
May 18th, 2024
PocketGamer.biz Podcast Week in Mobile Games E12 - Xbox's mobile games store and Unity vs. AppLovin
Top Stories
News
6 hours, 24 minutes ago
Week in Views - Squad Busters goes global, broken app stores, and Hill Climb Racing gets the LEGO treatment
News
8 hours, 35 minutes ago
Stumble Guys welcomes Looney Tunes characters in latest high-profile crossover
News
6 hours, 24 minutes ago
Week in Views - Squad Busters goes global, broken app stores, and Hill Climb Racing gets the LEGO treatment
News
May 31st, 2024
Mobile Movers: All the latest appointments and job moves from around the industry
Events
Indie Game Fest & Indie Campus 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Game Access Conference 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Indie Craft K-Game Festival 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Gaymer Pride | North America | Jun 1st |
BostonFig Online 2024 | Jun 1st | |
GameSummit Summer 2024 | Jun 1st | |
Gotland Game Conference 2024 | Nordic | Jun 3rd |
Games Mental Health Summit 2024 | Europe | Jun 3rd |