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Looks like Microsoft has some good news coming its way. Apparently Asustek Computer is close to committing to putting serious resources behind the Windows Phone 8 mobile platform. Specifically, the Taiwanese electronics maker plans to begin creating phones that run WP8.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Asustek (commonly known as Asus) will push for mobile carrier adoption in the U.S., which would be a first for the company. Asus may even be working on a WP8 version of its PadFone gadget, a wacky tablet and smartphone combo.
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On the surface this sure sounds like a big win for Microsoft, but I doubt Asus’ entry into Windows Phone waters will change the tide much. Android still has the positive momentum in the ongoing mobile OS wars, with even iOS up against the ropes. Also, while the PadFone is an interesting idea at its best (running Android) it combines one possibly compelling device (phone) with one that still hasn’t quite taken the world by storm (Android tablet). A PadFone running WP8 seems to be a blend of two products with equally cloudy prospects, WP8 handset and W8 tablet. I suppose we’ll have to sit tight to see if the rumors are true and whether customers will ultimately bite.
