Around the Net
Microsoft Pushing Phones With "Free-Time"
- CNET, Monday, April 9, 2012 2:50 PM
Microsoft is desperate for success with its new batch of smartphones, beginning with the Nokia Lumia 900 and HTC Titan II. After pouring millions of dollars in research and development -- not to mention a multimillion marketing campaign -- the software giant has set up "free-time machines" in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. “They are essentially offering freebies for meals, personal shoppers, grocery delivery, cleaning, and dog walkers,” CNet reports. “The promotion is part of the core Microsoft strategy centered on the Windows Phones as easy-to-use and efficient devices for personal tasks.” Personal concierges will also be on-hand to handle tasks like waiting in line for a burger.
More broadly, Microsoft, AT&T, and Nokia are pushing hard to get Windows Phone into the minds -- and pockets -- of consumers, CNet notes. AT&T promised the biggest launch for the Lumia 900, although many stores were actually closed for Easter when it launched yesterday, The New York Times noted.
Also, Nokia blanketed Times Square on Friday with huge ads and sponsored a Nicki Minaj concert to promote its latest flagship phone. “Microsoft wants consumers to really get its pitch that Windows Phones are more efficient than rival smartphones and can thus create more free time for consumers.”
