Android co-founders to Bill Gate: Your more responsible for Microsoft losing the $400 billion than you realize
In a recent interview, Bill Gates acknowledged that Microsoft’s failure to dominate the mobile market was “one of the greatest mistakes of all time,” costing the company a staggering $400 billion. However, Android co-founder Rich Miner has a different take on the situation, placing the blame squarely on Gates’ shoulders.
A DELIBERATE MOVE TO COUNTER MICROSOFT
Miner revealed that he helped create Android specifically to prevent Microsoft from controlling the mobile market and stifling innovation, just as they had done with PCs. Miner’s concerns about Microsoft’s potential monopolistic control of the mobile market date back to 2002, when he worked on the first Windows Mobile phone.
A CRUCIAL DELAY
The timing of market entry proved to be a critical factor in the mobile platform wars. Apple launched the iPhone in 2007, followed by Google’s Android in 2008. Microsoft, however, didn’t release Windows Phone 7 until 2010, ultimately leading to Android and Apple capturing 99.9% of the mobile market share.
MINER’S PARTING SHOT
In a parting shot, Miner stated, “So, sorry Bill, you’re more responsible for losing the $400B than you realize.” The comment highlights the complexity of the situation and the various factors that contributed to Microsoft’s failure in the mobile market.
The debate surrounding Microsoft’s missed opportunity in the mobile market continues, with Miner’s comments adding a new layer to the discussion.
