Sony might launch a Windows Phone device this year according to a report from The Information. According to the report Sony and Microsoft had discussions earlier regarding the licenses, pre-loaded software and other topics of interest. Sony has already developed prototypes for the device and the product might be branded under Sony’s Vaio brand of devices.
Sony has so far only makes phones with Android operating system. Sony differentiates its Android devices with unique design from the rest of the pack, but its ales dwarf the market leader Samsung. Microsoft is reportedly luring Android handset makes like Sony and ZTE to Windows Phone platform in the form of incentives like waving or lowering license fees among other things.
Sony might be negotiating with Microsoft over pre-loading its own services and apps to the Windows Phone platform as it is important for Sony to differentiate itself from the Nokia, the current market leader on Windows Phone platform. The report notes that the deal is not finalized and may fall apart over licensing fees, pre-loaded software etc. Microsoft has to bring more partners to Windows Phone platform to become third mobile operating system with meaningful market share.
What do you think, a Sony Windows Phone will make the cut, will you be interested in a Sony device running Windows Phone.
