Microsoft in San Francisco To Roll Out New Phone

The rollout was good, with Microsoft admitting that this is "not the phone for everyone."

On a day where bad weather has canceled many tech events, the one company that stayed in the Bay Area is getting its money's worth.

Microsoft rented out the Bill Graham Civic Center in San Francisco to roll out its Windows phone. It's actually a series of new phones from device makers like HTC and Nokia, coming with the new Microsoft Windows 8 inside.

The company has apps, a smooth experience (we tried it earlier, and it works well), and a cool presentation - cute kids (good feature - a place for kids to play that parents can control), and a long talk by celebrity entrepreneur Jessica Alba.

The rollout was good, with Microsoft admitting that this is "not the phone for everyone." A subtle nod to hot Apple iPhone sales.

By the time Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer came out to cheers, the company had pulled off something  - a sophisticated rollout of a slick product that will give consumers at least another choice.

Windows Phone 8 won't outsell the iPhone. Bet on that. But it's a solid alternative that works well, with a unique smartphone experience.  Good for them.

Scott likes choice. He's on Twitter: @scottbudman
 

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