The last time I checked, Apple had reported that 10 million iPhone’s had been sold (I have no idea what the numbers are now). Aside from the iPhone, most mobile conversation of late has centered around Google’s Android platform and now Palm’s webOS. But I tend to forget about Windows Mobile, an operating system that’s not terribly innovative but still competitive, especially among the business class. According to Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer’s keynote at CES 2009, mobile phones using the WinMo OS sold 20 million units globally in 2008. That included sales of over 30 new handsets released last year, some of which weren’t too shabby–particularly those manufactured by HTC. Can Microsoft maintain its mobile OS market share in 2009?
In other news, Verizon Wireless has chosen Microsoft to be the default search provider for all phones on its network. Microsoft had been rumored to be offering Verizon between $550 million to $650 million over 5 years, nearly double Google’s bid. While Verizon and Microsoft haven’t confirmed the financial terms of the deal, mocoNews points out that the previously reported numbers are likely inflated. To work out, Verizon subscribers would have to conduct 17 searches per month using Microsoft Live Search. Unlikely, because many mobile users wouldn’t use the home portal for search, instead choosing Google or another search engine. Microsoft says that the payment money will come from search ads.
The first Verizon Wireless devices with Windows Live Search will launch in the first half of 2009. The search portal will support voice commands and location-based services with search results returning maps, directions, movie times, business listings, gas prices and more.
This is Microsoft’s first US search deal. Google currently powers Sprint search, while Yahoo works with AT&T and T-Mobile.
