Microsoft responds to HTC sales slump with Windows RT lockout

Microsoft is blocking HTC from making devices for its forthcoming Windows RT tablet platform, after HTC slashed its second-quarter sales projections by 13%. According to Bloomberg, HTC might still release a “second round” tablet device running Windows RT early next year. However, HTC has reportedly been “locked out” of building a “first round” device when […]

Andrew Sadauskas 12 June, 2012

Microsoft is blocking HTC from making devices for its forthcoming Windows RT tablet platform, after HTC slashed its second-quarter sales projections by 13%.

According to Bloomberg, HTC might still release a “second round” tablet device running Windows RT early next year.

However, HTC has reportedly been “locked out” of building a “first round” device when Windows RT is released later this year, with Microsoft focusing on partners it believes can deliver greater sales volumes and more experience with tablet devices.

Many analysts are expecting HTC to record a 12% year-on-year fall in sales, with many consumers switching to Samsung Galaxy and Apple iOS devices.