they got into the game late. thats the worst part about it. lets be real, iphone=mac, android=windows. so you cant have a 3rd. or if you do. its linux. well we know how well thats selling in comparison to the other two. windows 8 phone is linux status. its seems like a darn good phone but they just cant get enough users on board.exactly...and how do you get phones in the hands of the people!??!
you need apps! you need app makers to take the risk because they see the future of windows phone....or you pay them in advance to make the apps.
in 2013 with ios and android domination app makers will not take a risk. people want apps before the phone! 2007/2008 the risk would have been taken with windows phone before the user base was in place.
M$ has to convince app makers. once again....1/2 baked ideas by M$, right?!?! If you think you product is the sh!t amidst the establishment of apple and google....you payola! you payola! you incur an upfront loss/cost and get the money back and then some later! M$ needs to realize hardware and OS potential ain't gonna sell you a lot of phones. PAYOLA PAYOLA PAYOLA....if you think your product is da sh!t!!!
like you said, they are going to have to pay to play. i would advised them to hire app makers of their own. but on a contract basis. and ask them to make apps for them. pay them more then they would make making droid/iphone apps. then people could at least see what the phone is capable off.