Microsoft (MSFT) has a lot riding on Windows Phone 8. After gaining barely any ground following the initial launch of Windows Phone 7 and the Windows Phone 7.5 refresh, another slow start for Microsoft’s new mobile platform could do a lot of damage as the company looks to regain relevance while Google (GOOG) and Apple (AAPL) continue to dominate the smartphone market. During an interview in Santa Clara, California on Wednesday, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer did his best to pitch his new mobile platform and in doing so, he had a few choice words for Android and iOS.
While being interviewed by LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, Ballmer called Android “wild” and “uncontrolled,” TechCrunch reports. Because Google doesn’t provide a system to effectively police the Google Play app store, Ballmer says the platform is susceptible to malware and users suffer as a result. The numbers certainly support his claim.
When the topic of discussion turned to Apple’s iOS platform, the Microsoft chief called it “high-priced” and “highly controlled.” iPhones can cost upwards of $1,000 in some markets, Ballmer explained, and he believes Apple’s tight control of the App Store is too far on the opposite side of the spectrum compared to Android.
Ballmer believes the clear alternative is Windows Phone, of course.
Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 is currently rolling out around the world on devices like the Nokia Lumia 920 and the HTC Windows Phone 8X.
