The Windows Phone 8 has now officially been launched, and it is packed with a host of exciting features. It has been designed as a separate OS, although it does have its similarities with Windows 8, making it easier to sync and share information between multiple devices. Although Microsoft takes up just about 3.7% of the smartphone market, the firm is betting on Windows Phone to turn things around.
Even though it doesn’t have as many apps on offer as the more established Android and iOS counterparts, the company is banking on its numerous developers to fill up the app store at a rapid pace. According to Microsoft, 46 of the top 50 smartphone apps are already available on Windows Phone 8, including Pandora, Facebook, Twitter, Angry Birds, etc.
What’s even more encouraging is that Microsoft has a number of phone makers, including Samsung, HTC, and Nokia manufacturing Windows Phone 8 based devices. One of the key advantages Microsoft has is the ability to integrate its smartphones with PCs and tablets running on Windows 8. Analysts have predicted that this feature could lend a huge push to Microsoft’s growth in the smartphone market, as none of the other smartphones can offer such high levels of integration.
With a strong and unique design, the only thing Microsoft needs to focus on it building up its repertoire of apps for the Windows Phone 8 to become successful in the market. Let’s hope we see more Windows phones in people’s hands soon!
