The software giant is offering to waive off the licensing it levies for using its mobile OS in HTC's Android smartphones, reports Bloomberg. Terry Myerson, head of Microsoft's operating systems unit, asked HTC last month to load Windows Phone as a second option, it says. However, these are only preliminary talks and a decision is yet to be made, say Bloomberg's sources.
According to the report, "It's willingness to add Windows as a second operating system underscores the lengths to which Microsoft will go to get manufacturers to carry its software. HTC, the first company to make both Windows and Android phones, hasn't unveiled a new Windows-based handset since June and has no current plans to release any more, said one person."
Microsoft wants to keep working with partners other than Nokia, and expects to be able to sign accords with some phone makers who previously have focused on Android, says the report citing sources. It also says that it remains unclear whether an HTC phone would run Windows and Android at the same time or let users choose a default.
No confirmation regarding the talks over the matter has been given by either Microsoft or HTC.
Nokia, HTC and Samsung are the three biggest manufacturers working on the Windows Phone platform. Other companies that also make WP-powered smartphones include the likes of Huawei,Fujitsu etc.
According to an earlier report, Nokia makes 80% of the Windows Phone smarphones and its low-cost Lumia 520 is the highest selling handset for this smartphone.
As per an IDC report, Windows Phone OS has a 3.7% market share, while Android and iOS hold 79% and 13% of the market, respectively. HTC's smartphone business is not doing well and the company recently posted global declines in sales, marking its first quarterly loss since going public in the July-September quarter of 2013.
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