Microsoft: the Kin and Windows Phone 7 Will Merge

Kin One Two thumb

When Microsoft and Verizon announced the new social networking Kin phones, critics jumped on the plan pricing required for them. Lacking the ability to download apps, the Kin One and Two are not full smartphones, yet the monthly data plan fee is more than some feel is justified. We spent quite a bit of time discussing that topic on the most recent episode of our podcast. The two companies are circling the wagons to defend the pricing for the Kins, as an interview with Computerworld shows.

The following statement from Microsoft is interesting, if a bit confusing concerning the future of both the Kin OS and Windows Phone 7:

“Over the longer term, we’ll be merging [Kin and Windows Phone 7] platforms and having downloadable apps,” said Greg Sullivan, senior product manager in Microsoft’s mobile communications unit.”

So if the platforms are going to merge anyway, and Windows Phone 7 is due to appear in just a few months, then why release the Kins at all? And will early adopters of the original Kin phones be able to enjoy the new features when they are finally released by Microsoft? Those (like me) confused by the release of the Kin phones in the first place, are probably more confused than ever.

A statement by Greg Sullivan, senior product manager in Microsoft’s mobile communications unit, will surely clear things up:

“If you want to amplify your life and are in searching mode, the Kin is for you, and if you want to simplify your life and manage things, then Windows Phone 7 is for you.”

All clear now?

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