Microsoft (MSFT +1.08%) isn't selling too many of the Windows RT-fueled Surface tablets, so it's doing what so many others have done after failing to make a dent in the iPad market: Mr. Softy's discounting its stuff.
On Friday, Microsoft began offering free touch-keyboard covers -- a $119 value -- with every Surface RT purchase. That's a good deal for anyone wanting an RT, especially since the magnetically attaching keyboards have been a major part of the slick marketing campaign for Microsoft's original tablet. However, a steep price discount, if not a discontinuation of the model entirely, is probably not too far away.
Microsoft missed with its originally overpriced tablet, which runs on a new operating system that isn't compatible with earlier Windows applications. The software giant eventually got it right with the higher-priced Surface that runs Windows 8.
It's a mystery why Microsoft would be doing this, unless it's part of a drawn-out fire sale.
Briefly in the news
And now let's take a quick look at some of the other stories that shaped our week.
- OmniVision (NASDAQ: OVTI) investors are seeing the big picture. Shares of the image sensor maker moved higher after posting better-than-expected quarterly results. Revenue soared 54%, and OmniVision's profit of $0.31 a share blew away the $0.21 analysts were targeting.
- Nokia (NOK +5.04%) is no longer the leading smartphone seller in Finland. Tech tracker IDC reports that Samsung outsold Nokia in its home country this past quarter. So much for the hometown hero.
- Vringo (NASDAQ: VRNG) got another tech giant to pay up, but it won't be much. The company announced a patent-infringement settlement with Mr. Softy in which Vringo will receive $1 million and enter into a licensing deal with the world's largest software company.
