Confessions of a Life-Maximizer: Windows Phone target customer

Yesterday, at MIX10, Microsoft unveiled much more about their Windows Phone 7, due to hit consumers hands by years end. Besides the bits about software and partners, the company went into exactly who the OS was designed for. The answer might surprise you.

For development purposes, the team created a married couple, Miles and Anna. The married 38 year-olds, are called “life maximizers” as they demand the most from their devices and are living life to the fullest. In fact, Anna just reduced her work hours so she could spend more time with the kids. The couple is keenly aware of the necessary balances in life, Miles keeps track of his work exchange email as well as friends on GMail. Miles may have a slight addiction to 3D games as well.

Not the younger demographic I expected with carry-over from other Microsoft brands like Xbox or Zune as the OS borrows heavily from both. Instead, Microsoft looks to be going the “devices for grown-ups” route. Competing against devices characterized as “toys” might be an angle the company takes.

What’s odd in this, is apparently I am a life-maximizer. As a 38 year-old, I am married with kids; keep track of a work Exchange account as well as GMail. My parents are not in Europe (though I’ve suggested they leave the continent and privately prayed for them to do so). I expect a lot from my devices, in fact my phone rarely leaves my side.

From when I wake and check in with my editor, texting with a daughter at the bus stop, then work using Google Voice as a work number. GPS navigation, reservations with Open Table and movie info and back to email check in and some gaming rounds out the day. If I do it right, my phone’s battery is smoking and expired at days end.

But Windows? I confess, I am not sure if I am willing to go back. The Samsung Blackjack was my first smartphone and Windows Mobile 5, then later an upgrade to Windows Mobile 6 did its best to keep up, but it wasn’t enough. Don’t even get me started on the stylus.

So far, the word from MIX10 is impressive. Windows Phone looks to have taken the best of their other brands and rolled them where Windows Mobile needed help the most. Is it enough or does it show it’s never too late in the mobile world?

Read: [Engadget]

Photo source: Engadget