Earlier this summer we reported on a rumor that said Nokia would be outsourcing the production of their first Windows Phones to Compal, a Chinese firm that similar to Foxconn, known for making the Apple iPhone, builds consumer electronics for cheap thanks to low cost labor. While Nokia would never in their right mind comment on such an allegation, we’ve got wind from another source, Taiwan based IDG News reporter Dan Nystedt, that not only is the Compal rumor true, but that the Compal order will measure roughly 2 million units and delivery will start as soon as next month. Now you might be asking why exactly is this news? Apple is widely known for not making anything they sell, instead relying on these massive Chinese companies. True as that might be, Nokia has traditionally prided themselves on the fact that their factories are responsible for pumping out over 1 million handsets per day. If Nokia starts going down a path where they don’t even make their own phones anymore, then what exactly are they?
There are still people out there who will buy anything Nokia slaps their name on, but that kind of brand loyalty, in today’s hyper competitive and ridiculously fast paced market, has the potential to all but disappear after several product cycles. Could Nokia be relying on Compal for their first Windows Phones in order to meet their 2011 deadline of getting said smartphones out on the market, and then as Compal is busy toiling away Nokia is furiously retooling their existing factories? That’s likely what’s going on here, but such a logical hypothesis would make for a boring headline.
Anyway, when exactly will we know more about Nokia’s first Windows Phone? If we had to place a bet, we’d say you’ll find out everything you need to know in late October when Nokia hosts their annual Nokia World event.