In a recent post on X, Rich Miner, one of the co-founders of Android, expressed his thoughts on Bill Gates’ comments regarding Microsoft’s loss in the mobile market to Android. Miner reflects on the motivations behind the creation of Android and the implications it had on mobile innovation.
In his post, Miner stated, “I literally helped create Android to prevent Microsoft from controlling the phone the way they did the PC – stifling innovation. So it's always funny for me to hear Gates whine about losing mobile to Android.” His assertion reflects his belief that Android has significantly shaped the mobile landscape, offering a more innovative alternative compared to what might have been experienced under Microsoft’s dominance through Windows Mobile. He went on to voice his sentiments on Android’s current state, acknowledging its imperfections while asserting its superiority over the potential Windows Mobile environment. Miner concluded with a strong opinion: “Even if I'm not 100% happy with Android right now, I'm 100% sure that it's a zillion times better than what non-Apple phones could've been under Bill Gates, if his Windows Mobile succeeded. But that's just me.”