Microsoft Poaches Samsung Exec to Head Windows Phone Division
18.05.12
Kim's move to become a Microsoft general manager is a loss for Samsung, but may also cement the companies' relationship as they both work to develop and market Windows Phone devices.
Kim affirmed, "There is a tremendous amount of synergy between Microsoft and Samsung and the relationship between the companies will only continue to grow stronger and more collaborative over time."
Samsung agreed, saying Kim will "continue to be part of the larger Samsung family through our partnership with Microsoft."
The two companies have an unusual relationship, as they began collaborating after Microsoft demanded royalty payments from Samsung for Android patent violations.
Microsoft originally requested the South Korean company pay it $15 per handset sold, but Samsung promised to market Windows Phones in exchange for lowering the price to $10.
By agreeing to Microsoft's demands, Samsung avoided costly litigation like the lawsuits it currently faces from rival Apple. The South Korean company thus avoided possible further injunctions on its smartphones and tablets and is now set to make money from selling Windows Phones like the Focus S and Flash .
Source: Mobiledia