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Microsoft Licenses ARM

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Follow the leader? Or smack the one you’re dancing with? Either way you look at it, Microsoft is raising a few eyebrows by announcing that is licensing ARM technology to further its aims in the mobile sector. Certainly, Microsoft isn’t giving up on Intel with this move, but it just points out how volatile the mobile sector is as we continue to see old school alliances shift and change. Beginning with the disruptive insertion of Netbooks into the market (anyone remember Netbooks?) it sure looks like many of the big players are willing to try different dance partners if they think it will lead to success.

Of course Microsoft has a history with ARM with its Windows CE, Mobile and Embedded platforms, but this moves strikes me as Microsoft realizing that it needs to take more control over its mobile partnerships. Follow the leader?

Via Electronista

3 Comments

3 Comments

  1. Sumocat

    07/23/2010 at 6:21 am

    I sense people are making more out of this deal than there really is. Licensing the architecture should help Microsoft better tailor their software to the ARM processors their partners are using. Maybe they’ll explore custom silicon for Zune. Both ways, the deal enhances what they currently offer.

  2. Dan

    07/23/2010 at 6:34 am

    I concur with you Sumocat, Windows Mobile has been running on ARM for what…15 years? It makes sense that this continues with Phone 7 at least.

    Dan

  3. GTaylor

    07/23/2010 at 7:27 am

    If Microsoft is clearing the boards for increased mobile presence, phone, player, courier, whatever, this move makes good sense.

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