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In Conversation with Microsoft
Bharti Adhikari, Jul 14, 2008 0600 hrs ISTTechtree managed to grab a couple of sound bytes from Microsoft India's Director of Mobile Communication Business.
In a tete-a-tete with this correspondent, Sumeet Gugnani, Director of Mobile Communication Business of Microsoft India spoke about smart phones in general and Windows Mobile in particular. Here's presenting excerpts from the conversation:
Why would an end consumer opt for Windows Mobile vis-a-vis other mobile operating systems?
Windows Mobile provides a four-pronged value proposition for all devices:
Speed and cost-effectiveness of email services (push mail messaging), wherein email and other information like contacts, tasks, calendar is pushed and synchronized directly between the Microsoft Exchange 2003 Server (SP2)
Access to complete Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Pocket MSN, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and PDF viewers on-the-fly
Multimedia functionality and stylish form factor
Support for development of new business applications; currently, there are around 18,000 third-party applications designed for Windows Mobile worldwide
Even then, there aren't too many devices using Windows Mobile, are there?
Windows Mobile has indeed received a tremendous response since its launch, with globally, 49 device makers roped in and over 140 Windows Mobile-based designs shipping. In India, we have partnerships with seven leading mobile manufacturers including HTC, Motorola, Palm, HP, iMate, Asus, and Samsung. Sony Ericsson for instance is our global partner.
What's the USP of Windows Mobile 6.1; which handsets will feature this version of Windows Mobile?
Windows Mobile 6.1 is marked by newer time-saving features, easier navigation, and enhanced security. Some improvements include:
Simpler set-up for email, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth -- along with help from the new 'Getting Started Centre'
One-click access to voice mail, missed calls, email, text messages, music listening, and photo-sharing
Internet Explorer Web browser that allows users zoom into parts of Web pages making for improved usability
Full version Outlook for a more desktop-like experience on the small screen
Compatibility with Office Mobile allowing users create and edit files in formats they are most comfortable with (Word, Excel)
Supported by 'System Centre Mobile Device Manager 2008' and 'Exchange Server 2007 SP1' advanced management policies, Windows Mobile 6.1 devices are managed like Windows-based PCs or laptops. So, sensitive business files, emails, contacts, and other such information stands protected with security features like file encryption, etc
Mobile VPN (virtual private network) makes for secure access to company data and application updates over the air
What's the future of Windows Mobile?
FY07, Microsoft sold 11-million Windows Mobile licenses worldwide; double the number sold in FY06. Our target for FY08 is 20-million. In India too, Windows Mobile has crossed 1-million users in under 15 months. Mobile is a key priority for Microsoft; it pans across a wide range of business groups helping people stay connected, informed, and productive. We believe Microsoft is uniquely positioned to offer value to mobile consumers by integrating innovations such as Windows Mobile, Exchange, and Windows Live.
Looking at smart phone buyers in general, what does an operating system (OS) bring to a smart phone?
Just as an operating system is to a PC, it is to a mobile device; it is the platform that allows multiple applications to run on mobile devices such as smart phones, PDAs, and so on. In mobile operating systems, we have products from the likes of Symbian, Palm, Mobile Linux, MXI, Research in Motion (RIM), and of course, Microsoft.
Where is the market trend moving in terms of demand for smart phones in India?
Contrary to public perception, the smart phones segment is witnessing a boom. The market has recently seen a surge in demand in both consumer and enterprise segments mainly due to reduction in prices. The other important factor is what constitutes this demand. Consumers today are gradually moving to more multipurpose, all-in-one devices. A shift to converged devices has raised the utility factor attached to smart phones. Moreover, consumers -- whether professionals or young college-goers all but want an 'intelligent' device capable of fulfilling their work and play needs.
What's the future of smart phones?
The future is: "thinner and more affordable". Currently, the smart phone segment is largely driven by prosumers or buyers with high disposable incomes. Futuristic smart phones will be characterized by advanced security features (protection against virus attacks, etc) and Web applications (Web 2.0, Wi-Fi); they will strive to offer desktop-like experiences custom-fitted to smaller screens. For the up-and-coming smart phones, the mantra is going to be "connectivity and accessibility"
(Interview ends)
Afterword:
Whether the future belongs to Windows Mobile or not, we can't comment. But we can surely expect stiff competition in the market for mobile devices and operating systems; hopefully, benefits of which will trickle down to consumers.
Why would an end consumer opt for Windows Mobile vis-a-vis other mobile operating systems?
Windows Mobile provides a four-pronged value proposition for all devices:
Even then, there aren't too many devices using Windows Mobile, are there?
Windows Mobile has indeed received a tremendous response since its launch, with globally, 49 device makers roped in and over 140 Windows Mobile-based designs shipping. In India, we have partnerships with seven leading mobile manufacturers including HTC, Motorola, Palm, HP, iMate, Asus, and Samsung. Sony Ericsson for instance is our global partner.
What's the USP of Windows Mobile 6.1; which handsets will feature this version of Windows Mobile?
Windows Mobile 6.1 is marked by newer time-saving features, easier navigation, and enhanced security. Some improvements include:
What's the future of Windows Mobile?
FY07, Microsoft sold 11-million Windows Mobile licenses worldwide; double the number sold in FY06. Our target for FY08 is 20-million. In India too, Windows Mobile has crossed 1-million users in under 15 months. Mobile is a key priority for Microsoft; it pans across a wide range of business groups helping people stay connected, informed, and productive. We believe Microsoft is uniquely positioned to offer value to mobile consumers by integrating innovations such as Windows Mobile, Exchange, and Windows Live.
Looking at smart phone buyers in general, what does an operating system (OS) bring to a smart phone?
Just as an operating system is to a PC, it is to a mobile device; it is the platform that allows multiple applications to run on mobile devices such as smart phones, PDAs, and so on. In mobile operating systems, we have products from the likes of Symbian, Palm, Mobile Linux, MXI, Research in Motion (RIM), and of course, Microsoft.
Where is the market trend moving in terms of demand for smart phones in India?
Contrary to public perception, the smart phones segment is witnessing a boom. The market has recently seen a surge in demand in both consumer and enterprise segments mainly due to reduction in prices. The other important factor is what constitutes this demand. Consumers today are gradually moving to more multipurpose, all-in-one devices. A shift to converged devices has raised the utility factor attached to smart phones. Moreover, consumers -- whether professionals or young college-goers all but want an 'intelligent' device capable of fulfilling their work and play needs.
What's the future of smart phones?
The future is: "thinner and more affordable". Currently, the smart phone segment is largely driven by prosumers or buyers with high disposable incomes. Futuristic smart phones will be characterized by advanced security features (protection against virus attacks, etc) and Web applications (Web 2.0, Wi-Fi); they will strive to offer desktop-like experiences custom-fitted to smaller screens. For the up-and-coming smart phones, the mantra is going to be "connectivity and accessibility"
(Interview ends)
Afterword:
Whether the future belongs to Windows Mobile or not, we can't comment. But we can surely expect stiff competition in the market for mobile devices and operating systems; hopefully, benefits of which will trickle down to consumers.
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