Yesterday in our latest edition of WPD Bits, we mentioned an interview of Steve Ballmer found in The Seattle Times in which he spoke on a number of topics. However, one notable omission was Windows Phone 8 which was scarcely mentioned throughout the transcript. Fortunately, it appears The Seattle Times did actually query the Microsoft CEO about their latest mobile platform along with other interview questions that didn't make it to print.

Speaking on Windows Phone 8, Ballmer makes their strategy clear: Windows 8 will be the gateway to success in mobile. Here is his full response:

On Windows Phone 8:

Q: What is Microsoft's plan if Windows 8 doesn't take off? If Windows Phone 8 isn't successful, how does the company then plan to get a toehold in mobile?

A: You know, Windows 8 is going to do great. ... I'm excited about it. We've got our work cut out there, but we really have our work cut out for us in the phone. And yet, I think when people see the way we share so much in terms of user interface, the cloud, your information moving with you, we're going to get some important lift for Windows Phone 8 and we've got more we're working on that will come after it. But I think Windows Phone 8 will get a lot of lift from Windows 8.

Wheras Apple's strategy used the iPhone to transition users into the iPad, Microsoft is taking the reverse approach by emphasizing tablets and PCs first and then Windows Phone. The outlet also asked Ballmer if Surface tablets will be sold at pop-up Microsoft Stores this holiday (the answer is yes). More interestingly, they also asked how Microsoft is going to measure the success of the Surface tablets — would it come down to sales or influence on other OEMs? Ballmer replied, "Yes and yes. They both have to happen."

Check out the left over questions at the source link, and also be sure to read The Seattle Times' full interview with Steve Ballmer here (it's a great read).

Source: The Seattle Times