14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has turned from a company committed to its mobile platform to an Android device reseller, with several models powered by Google’s operating system now available in its own stores.
One such example is Samsung’s flagship family of products, which includes the Galaxy S8, the Galaxy S9, and the Note 8.
Microsoft took everyone by surprise last year when it started selling the Galaxy S8, and this strategy continues this year with the revamped Galaxy S9. But despite the S8 being the older model, it’s actually more expensive than its successor, as Microsoft hasn’t adjusted pricing in any way following the launch of the Galaxy S9 this month.
This means that whoever wants to purchase the Galaxy S8 from the Microsoft Store these days need to pay more than for the Galaxy S9, which as part of a launch offer, also comes with a free charging stand.
Expensive old generation
More specifically, the Samsung Galaxy S8 starts at $724.99 at the Microsoft Store, while the Galaxy S9 can be yours for $719.99. Both models come unlocked, but the newer generation includes a free wireless fast charging stand worth $59.99.
While this could be just a small error on Microsoft’s website, it raises questions as to why anyone should purchase an Android phone from the Redmond-based software giant.
Samsung itself is selling the Galaxy S8 at $599.99 in the United States, while the Galaxy S8+ is available from $689.99. The Galaxy S9 costs $719.99, the same price that Microsoft uses for this particular model, while the Galaxy S9+ starts at $839.99.
It’ll be interesting to see if Microsoft actually cuts prices of the Galaxy S8 in the coming weeks given that a new generation has already hit the shelves, but if you’re in the market looking for a new phone, you better check twice before committing to a purchase from the Microsoft Store.