Staying true to CEO Satya Nadella’s words, Microsoft has officially launched both the flagship smartphones – Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL in India. Microsoft doesn’t just call them flagships, it has priced them like flagships too.
But does the Redmond-based software major want to sell them in huge numbers? I believe it doesn’t.
Microsoft claims the target audience for its Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL are Windows fans and business customers. If stats are anything to go by, the favourite Windows smartphone for many is still the Lumia 540 and you can even spot people with the Lumia 640XL. These are the Microsoft devices that Windows fans use and they sell for less than half of Lumia 950’s retail price.
Watch video of new Lumia phones
On the other hand, business users are already moving to Apple’s iPhone and not because of iOS but thanks to the suite of Microsoft apps available on the ecosystem. I have used the iPhone and without any doubt the best mail app comes from Microsoft. The best calendar app comes from Microsoft. The best to-do app comes from Microsoft.
The three key things business users want from their smartphone are pleasantly available on Apple’s iPhone with Microsoft’s apps. Then there is BlackBerry which has added its security to Android and made a device called Priv – a smartphone destined to reach hands of many executives who already carry a Classic or Passport.
In Pics: Microsoft Lumia 950, Lumia 950XL: The first Windows 10 OS phones
On pure Android front, Google pushes Nexus smartphones not because it wants to make money from hardware but because to help other OEMs. Microsoft’s Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL are similar gameplay. Just like Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book, these Lumias are going to pave way for other reluctant OEMs to come onboard Windows 10 ecosystem and build great devices at cheaper price.
At Rs 43,699, it’s a no brainer to pick a Nexus 6P or Samsung Galaxy S6 for what they offer – rich app ecosystem and premium design.
For the moment, Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL will serve as torch bearers for Microsoft’s mobile efforts. But don’t be surprised if you see someone with Lumia 950, they are Windows fans who wish to live life without walls.