Microsoft can kiss other Windows Phone vendors goodbye

The software giant says it will continue to license its operating system after it buys Nokia, but its other partners aren’t likely to stick around long. If companies like Samsung and HTC were hesitant to build Windows Phones before, they’re likely now reconsidering it altogether. Microsoft on Tuesday revealed plans to buy Nokia’s device and services division for $7.2 billion. The company views the deal as its way to gain more traction in a smartphone market currently dominated by Apple and Samsung. It’s also a way for Microsoft to become more Apple-like, controlling both hardware and software.