Microsoft + Nokia = Failure. Okay, perhaps a bit harsh (maybe equals a marginalized player within the Smartphone space is more befitting?) Nevertheless, here’s a quick breakdown:
a) Sub-par Product Designs – Microsoft is / was clearly caught flat-footed and is playing catch-up (as has happened in a number of other computing categories with Redmond).
b) Nokia’s Brand – Their customer loyalty has been declining for quite some time now (save in the low-end, high-volume space within the Developing World).
c) Mobile Trust – Redmond was once the default leader in this space – emphasis, was once.
d) Enterprise Space – It’s unlikely that this duo will gain any significant traction herein.
e) OS – Google and/or Apple offer far greater choices; options; apps, etc.
f) Undercutting Price – Low price oftens equates with lacking features (which is the case here).
g) Marketing – See Apple for (another) reference.
h) A Strong Lead / Story – Nokia’s handsets are anything but compelling / must-have, etc.
i) Fan-Boys – Noticeably absent…
j) Timing – Microsoft / Nokia are simple not capitalizing on CES (via show-piecing their alliance and releasing a can’t wait to buy product thereafter).
(Source) eWeek: http://goo.gl/361T7