When rumors first started circulating that Nokia would be launching an Android powered device many people didn’t believe it. The Finnish manufacturer had been exclusively making Windows Phone powered smartphones, the platform that it chose over its own homegrown platform. But the Nokia X lineup was unveiled and even though it was a highly forked version the underlying software was Android nonetheless. Now it appears that Microsoft is ending its run.
Only recently a refreshed Nokia X model was released which is also powered by Android. This smartphone came out when Nokia’s devices and services division officially belonged to Microsoft, technically making it Redmond’s very first Android smartphone.
The Nokia X lineup has been geared towards emerging markets but it appears that Microsoft doesn’t want it to linger. Besides it has got all the help it needs from the Windows powered Lumia 520 in emerging markets. In a memo today CEO Satya Nadella confirmed that select Nokia X products will be absorbed into the Lumia brand which is exclusively powered by Windows Phone.
It wouldn’t come as a surprise if the Nokia X lineup doesn’t get a new model down the road. It is highly unlikely since it won’t align with Microsoft’s strategic direction. So if you want an Android powered Nokia device the X2 is probably your last chance.
Microsoft also announced its biggest round of layoffs today, 18,000 people will be laid off as the company restructures teams and sets about its business in a much more efficient manner.