Microsoft was hoping for strong sales numbers on the day of their US Windows Phone 7 launch, but unfortunately for them, it looks like the figures are at the lower end of the spectrum. It’s reported that just 40,000 Windows Phone 7 units were sold in the US on the November 8 launch day, which isn’t as bad as the failed Microsoft KIN, but still similarly on the low side. Luckily for Microsoft, WP7 is not the KIN, and sales should improve. The market research was conducted by a source who tracks phone sales and did not include the 89,000 phones gifted to Microsoft employees.
Although sales aren’t as high as some expected, certain devices, like T-Mobile’s HTC HD7, seem to be doing quite well thus far – meaning, it sold out and is already listed as back-ordered. Perhaps, the low numbers have more to do with stock rather than demand. Let’s not forget the ongoing stock shortages in the UK for HTC and Samsung Windows Phone 7s, as the same could very well be happening in the US. It also doesn’t help that Verizon and Sprint, the largest and 3rd largest US carriers, weren’t involved for the Windows Phone 7 launch. Devices that were available to consumers only included those from GSM carriers, like AT&T and T-Mobile.
We’re excited to see how sales will balance out once more carriers get involved and stock starts flowing freely. Also, since Windows Phone 7 is a brand-spanking new mobile OS, it may take more time for consumers to realize there’s a capable new choice out there. Stay tuned, it’s going to be an interesting ride for Microsoft.
Note: Here’s a neat tidbit Microsoft should keep in the back of their minds as they strive for smartphone domination: Google and Apple claim they’re selling 200,000 Android devices and 270,000 iPhones a day, respectively.
(Source: TheStreet via Neowin)
