August is closing to an end, and we're all gearing up for the imminent rumours, announcements and discussion that will take place over the next number of weeks in the lead up to Windows Phone 8. As we prepare for a hopefully eventful September, let's take a quick look at popular threads from the weekend on the Windows Phone Central forums.
We covered the result of Apple's patent lawsuit against Samsung, which left the latter with a charge of just over $1 billion - not bad, eh? We asked the question in our From the Editor's Desk, "What does this mean for Windows Phone?", with the possibility of Microsoft actually benefiting from the court conclusion. While the battle between companies over patents is far from over, it'll at least make Windows Phone a more appealing platform to support since measures are in place to protect OEM partners.
12Danny123 speedily created a thread on the forum, asking for input from other members. It quickly exploded into a number of replies with some insightful posts.
Hey guys was the samsung vs apple trial good for wp? I think yes. IT'S A TOTAL GAME CHANGER. Now Samsung will now Wp8 an attractive OS. then the other OEM will follow. this will A slow down of android phones and more Windows phone 8 devices. Also with Samsung paying Apple and MS for android and the risk of making android phones, the risk increases for apple to sue. so now Samsung and the other OEM have no choice but to develop Windows phones. this is a good move.
There is reason to be excited about the potential boost Windows Phone could receive from the court result, but that's still a long way off, and we're yet to see Windows Phone 8. What do you think? Do you believe Windows Phone can benefit from Samsung (and other Android OEMs) losing out to Apple? Head on over to the "was the apple win good for wp? I think yes" thread to voice your opinion.
Should 'good' apps be paid only?
What are your thoughts on paid apps? Do you find the low price tags justify what consumers receive? A thread was started which asks that very question. Forum user Jimski responded with an insightful post that goes into detail why he feels strongly against those who actively complain about spending less than $2 on useful apps.
"So it frustrates me to see people complain about spending $0.99 or $1.29 for a good, well supported app. Less than the cost of a candy bar that will be gone forever in about 3 minutes. I like free as much as anybody. But the reality is that in order for a developer to put his heart and soul into developing a great app, and then continuing to support it, he/she needs more than a thank you. USA Today doesn't need to charge for their app. But if you want to see indie developers excel be prepared to put up a couple bucks."
While a large number of apps do have a low price points, it's generally less than the cost of a coffee or even a chocolate bar. Be sure to add your $0.02 in the "Should good apps ONLY be paid?" thread.
Miscellaneous: Would a Samsung Galaxy S3 Windows Phone be successful?
Samzer has created a thread to shine light on Samsung's potential to push new and innovative Windows Phone hardware out. The manufacturer has played a major role in making the platform what it is today by continuing to release and support a number of devices. Since Nokia has joined the band, all eyes have been focused on the Finnish manufacturer thanks to marketing efforts, but we shouldn't forget the other OEMs who have been with Microsoft since birth.
"I'm more than certain when they release this rumored device, A GS3 like WP8 device, this phone will completely outsell any other windows phone 8 device. It will dominate any other WP8 device without question. Nokia may "feel" better to a lot the Sammy haters, but make no mistake, Sammy's handsets are built extremely well and with the same materials (polycarbonate). But with removable battery and storage."
What do you make of Samsung's chances to take control of the Windows Phone ecosystem? Has Nokia done enough to comfortably hold the number one spot? Which manufacturer are you closely following in the run up to Windows Phone 8? Let us know in the comments and in the "A Galaxy S3 Windows Phone will dominate" thread.
