New twist in smartphone wars – Samsung aims to spend more time with Microsoft than Google

30 Aug 2012

Samsung is closely partnering with Microsoft to cut its dependency on Google’s Android mobile operating system, according to a major Korean newspaper. The company is also working on forging stronger partnerships with mobile operators on Apple’s home turf including Verizon Wireless as its war against Apple enters a new phase.

Reeling from its defeat in a Californian court last week, Samsung is bolstering its defenses and is preparing all measures for all scenarios to fight Apple in 50 patent disputes across 10 countries, according to the Korea Times.

The paper reports that Samsung has been closely partnering with Microsoft to cut its dependency on Google Android.

The company has also been in talks with major US carriers to jointly develop “modified technology.”

The Korean technology giant is also prepared to sue Apple if it releases products using advanced LTE (4G) technology.

Today at the IFA technology trade show in Berlin Samsung unveiled its new range of ATIV smart devices, which come with the latest Windows 8, Windows RT and Windows Phone 8 operating systems. The latest Microsoft platforms will see general release in October and are expected to see great levels of demand.

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com