In light of the enclosed report that just over 1/2 of all Android-based handsets involve paying a licensing fee back to Microsoft… it almost makes one wonder why Redmond is attempting to become more than just an also-ran (at best) within the Smartphone space. Granted, the last move the company will / would make is to sit-by idly and not throw millions of dollars at attempting to get anything to stick on /to the proverbial wall. Nevertheless, if Android-based handsets continue to challenge Apple’s iPhone dominance (at least) Microsoft will be able to fund their (at this juncture) futile attempt at becoming a ‘real’ threat within this market segment.
(Source) Ars Technica: http://goo.gl/ymbL9