found little interest in a prototype Dell phone that runs both Windows Mobile and Google's Android. "From our conversations with supply chain and industry sources, it appears that it ultimately came down to lack of carrier interest," Wu was quoted as saying in . Another source, , concluded that "carriers found the Dell offerings to be dull and apparently thought Dell's prototypes were not differentiated enough compared to products from HTC, LG, Motorola, Nokia and Samsung."
Aside from analysts and carriers, Dell will also have to contend with skeptical customers. "The world needs another cell phone maker like it needs another pizza delivery company," commented reader crosscreek at the end of the MarketWatch article.
"Dell's deserved negative reputation would have doomed any but the most spectacular of efforts to failure," added bored2tears. "Right now, the company would be better served improving its product line and customer service."
A third reader, Acdc1a, also questioned Dell's customer service. "I love Dell products and won't use another computer. That said, the customer service is beyond poor," he said.
Watchone wondered where a Dell smartphone would fit in a crowded field. "Dell can't compete with AAPL, PALM or RIMM. Those companies offer a vertical solution in which they can provide, control and profit from the full user experience. Dell will have to compete with the HTC, Motorola, Samsung etc. It is unlikely that Dell will be able to beat these guys on price ( given the existing economies of scale) design (based on lack of experience in the field) or service (based on track record)."