So Microsoft's thinking of developing an iPod-killer? So says BusinessWeek, which reports that Microsoft hasn't decided whether to go ahead with the “xPod” project yet. My advice is simple: don't do it, Bill, because it's already too late unless you want to be a marginal play. I mean, the iPod is so well-entrenched, Creative Technology and iRiver barely have a foothold – let alone Dell and its Digital Jukebox. The iPod's hold on the market has given its default status with consumers in that when most people think about buying an MP3 player, they immediatley think about an iPod. The same goes for the Blackberry and mobile e-mail, no matter what Motorola, Nokia and Microsoft may try to tell you otherwise.
I certainly get your point, but then how do you explain the late-entry, slow-start-but-finally-kicking-butt success of XBox? On paper, that was a silly idea, but it seems to be making an impact, and possibly growing the category to boot.
– Stuart
If microsoft can offer a cost effective version of the Ipod then I would love that. I feel the price of Ipods are too high when you factor in all the accessories.
It will be a similar battle that OS makers have with going against microsoft. The problem is that since the Ipod has become so big manufacturers of other products have jumped on the train and integrated Ipod support (like car audio).
I don't know if it can be done though because clearly Apple will put up a huge fight since the Ipod is there bread and butter. Microsoft would give a good battle though.
- Chris
I think MS has one big advantage over Creative and iRiver if they attempt to introduce an “xPod”. The fact that they control the OS, and have enough clout with the distribution companies can make them a contender.
I believe that what made the iPod much more successful than the competitors was the seamless integration with the OS and the iTunes Store. MS has the potential to replicate all of those. Though I guess it will never advance to be anything beyond “potential”.
The XBox experience just proves an old adage about Microsoft; they need to introduce 3 more more versions to get it right. Windows never took off until Windows 3.1 in 1991; but there was a Windows 1.0 and 2.0 in the late 80's. Until Windows 95, Quarterdeck's DESQview was regarded as the premier multi-tasking environment. So if MS brings out an xPOD look at the first couple of versions as “market betas” to determine how they can put together a product sufficiently differentiated to gain significant market traction. Only MS has the cash resources to support “market beta” programs.
Disclosure: I was involved in the sales and marketing of Quarterdeck products from 1986 to 1996.