Microsoft may be struggling to get Windows Phone 8 finished, as reports suggest that the upcoming software has slipped significantly behind schedule.
The Verge cites 'multiple sources' who reckon Microsoft's original plan was to get Windows Phone 8 finished in early October ahead of Windows 8's release on the 26th, but that thanks to delays and software bugs, we may not see the first Windows Phone 8 devices on sale until November.
While Nokia and Samsung have revealed their first Windows Phone 8 devices, Microsoft has apparently instructed HTC, Samsung and Nokia not to show off the operating system yet.
While it's tough to know for sure what's going on behind Microsoft's closed doors, a recent even I attended had Nokia's new Lumia 920 and 820 phones kept behind glass, which suggests to me that Ballmer and chums don't think the software is ready for a public airing. Samsung's horribly-named Ativ S was also not available to prod at the recent IFA tech trade show in Berlin.
With the iPhone 5 looming large, and the UK's first 4G network imminent, the timing of Windows Phone 8 is crucial. If Microsoft's update arrives too late, then manufacturers who've taken a chance on the tile-centric software could lose ground to Apple.
As for Nokia -- whose fortunes are entwined with those of Microsoft's software -- its new Lumia phones will be among the first to work with Everything Everywhere's new 4G service, which launches in a few weeks.
That could be a big selling point, but the appeal will diminish as other 4G-capable phones become available. A 4G-ready Samsung Galaxy S3 is already confirmed.
Is Microsoft moving fast enough? Will Windows Phone 8 succeed or prove disastrous? Tell me in the comments or on our Facebook wall.
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Comments 11
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Mark Anderson 12 September, 2012 16:18
Yes, that whole two week delay between late October and early November will be critical. No, really.
As for the iPhone 5... boring. There's a good article about it on the Beeb's website by Dan Lyons which pretty much nails why Apple are now a curious combination of the Burberry and Ford Focus of the tech world.
anonymous 12 September, 2012 16:41
Much as I agree with Mark Anderson about the BBC article, I think that any delay at this stage could prove extremely damaging to Nokia.
anonymous 12 September, 2012 17:22
Have always been a Nokia fan. Currently using the lumia 710 and was excited about the new kit especially the 820. I like the changeable case. Was shocked that on all reviews besides the home screen the journalists couldn't go further. Definitely going to have an impact. Wouldn't be surprised if its pushed back further. If it gets any worse I assume Nokia will try android.
anonymous 12 September, 2012 18:18
now with the smoothness & tidying up one thanks to jelly bean nokia will lay the smackldown on android if ms is going to be this ridiculous
anonymous 12 September, 2012 20:49
The delay is really bad news as this is a point where both Apple and Samsung have put out something. Windows fans can not buy current phones because the OS is a "deadman walking" . So they either wait or decide to go for another system in a situation like this some customers will jump rather than wait. If there are serious problems with the OS then those delays could extend or a faulty OS gets released causing further damage to brand name.
This is not good for Nokia or Windows.
anonymous 12 September, 2012 21:58
Microsoft really needs to throw all its resources at this. It can't afford to miss the boat again.
anonymous 13 September, 2012 01:11
Like most was keeping an eye out for the iPhone 5. Nothing spectacular so far. But must admit, apple do have their act together. I guess it a huge advantage of having everything under one roof. Launch and shipping in under 2 weeks. Impressive stuff. Sticking with windows 8 and Nokia though. Hurry up Microsoft!!!!!
anonymous 14 September, 2012 02:11
You forget Apple makes 1 - count 'em all - ONE phone! The software that they write - inhouse - has to support 1 - count 'em all - ONE phone. Is that such a great achievement? You tell me.
anonymous 14 September, 2012 10:41
I am waiting for this. I want a Nokia and I want Windows, hope they sort it out soon
MickiTee 14 September, 2012 14:47
Sounds like its going to be a typical Microsoft OS release i.e. full of bugs and unuseable for six months. Pity, as I want a Windows smart phone preferably from Nokia. Time will tell
anonymous 29 September, 2012 01:32
I'm ready to come back to Microsoft... hope they get it right! Phone, Tablet ... already on Win-7...