Microsoft seems to have some iPhone & Palm Pre fans in its own campus and it has made its stand clear to its employees by disallowing data plan compensation to any employee not using a Windows Mobile phone. While this sounds weird and certainly not a very employee friendly attitude, Google has somehow managed to keep all its employees to use Google services; which according to them helps them improve their products. Perhaps Microsoft would do better asking their employees to suggest improvements for Windows Mobile platform.Microsoft was early in the smartphone race with Windows Mobile. The XDA’s ruled the smartphone planet and things changed after that. Windows Mobile failed to adapt to the new style of smartphones that are loaded with multitouch on capacitive displays, apps and powerful graphics. Microsoft is now playing catchup to Apple and others like Google seem to be gaining momentum in the mobile space.
A Microsoft rep confirms that data plan reimbursement “is limited to Windows Mobile devices.” They add: “This policy took effect as part of the broader cost saving measures announced earlier this year.”