Windows Phone is closer to its demise and it seems the company is getting rid of services that are consuming resources related to its operating system.
Recently, the company mentioned that Skype apps will no longer work on Windows Phone operating system after July 1st.
The company said in a statement,
We’ve noticed that you are, or previously, using Skype on Windows Phone 8, Windows Phone 8.1, Messaging app for Windows 10 Mobile, Windows RT or a TV. We’re sorry to inform you that we will be permanently retiring these versions of Skype. As a result, after July 1, 2017, you will no longer be able to sign in to these versions of Skype.
The End of an Era for Windows Phone
So if you’re using Skype on Windows Phone 8, Windows Phone 8.1, or the Messaging app for Windows 10 Mobile, you’ll be disappointed to know that the Redmond-based company will discontinue the service after July 1st. This means that if you want to use the service on your device, you will have to switch to a device which supports it.
The discontinuation of Skype on these platforms marks another step towards the end of the Windows Phone era. Windows Phone, once seen as a potential competitor to iOS and Android, has struggled to gain significant market share. Despite its innovative features and integration with other Microsoft services, it failed to attract a large user base and developer support.
Why Did Windows Phone Fail?
Several factors contributed to the decline of Windows Phone. One of the main reasons was the lack of apps. While iOS and Android boasted millions of apps, Windows Phone’s app store lagged far behind. Many popular apps were either not available or were released much later than on other platforms, leading to a less appealing user experience.
Another issue was the hardware. While there were some high-quality Windows Phone devices, many were mid-range or low-end, which did not attract the premium market segment. Additionally, Microsoft’s frequent changes in strategy and branding, such as the shift from Windows Phone to Windows 10 Mobile, created confusion among consumers and developers.
The acquisition of Nokia’s mobile division was also a significant factor. While it initially seemed like a strategic move to bolster Windows Phone, it ultimately resulted in substantial financial losses and did not lead to the expected market growth.
Is There Any Possible Way Microsoft Can Resurrect the Windows Phone Operating System?
Given the current market dynamics, it seems unlikely that Microsoft will attempt to resurrect the Windows Phone operating system. The mobile market is dominated by iOS and Android, and breaking their stronghold would require a significant investment and a compelling value proposition.
However, Microsoft has not entirely abandoned the mobile space. The company has shifted its focus to providing apps and services on iOS and Android, ensuring that its software ecosystem remains relevant. For instance, Microsoft Office, OneDrive, and Outlook are widely used on both platforms. Additionally, the company has invested in developing the Surface Duo, a dual-screen Android device that integrates Microsoft’s services and aims to offer a unique mobile experience.
In conclusion, while the discontinuation of Skype on Windows Phone marks the end of an era, it also reflects Microsoft’s strategic shift towards a more platform-agnostic approach. By focusing on delivering high-quality apps and services across all major platforms, Microsoft aims to remain a significant player in the mobile space, even without its own operating system.
Source: PhoneArena
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