Microsoft Office on iOS: Microsoft Losing $2.5 Billion Per Year on iOS Delays, Says Analyst

Will there ever be a Microsoft Office suite for the iOS?

According to an analyst, Microsoft is losing billions for not developing of Office suite for iOS users.

Earlier this week, Microsoft CEO Peter Klein was asked about launching a version of Office for the iOS during a Goldman Sachs tech conference. According to Forbes, CEO Klein "dodged" the question but he did not how Microsoft has provided service for other platforms, such as Office on the MacBooks.

As Microsoft recently launch their Surface tablet and latest Windows Phone 8 smartphones, Microsoft will likely not release an iOS edition of Office anytime soon.

According to Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Holt concluded that Microsoft's decision not to launch an Office suite for the iOS is costing the Windows company more than $2 billion.

"Office on iPad could be a several billion dollar opportunity," wrote Holt in his research note. "While [Microsoft] has resisted offering a full version of Office for the iOS, the company may ultimately decide there is more upside with Office on iPads, particularly if [Windows] tablets fall short of expectations. The Surface RT likely sold only 900,000-1 million units in calendar [fourth quarter], while OEMs have pulled back on tablet builds and it may be difficult for MSFT to reach much more than 10 percent tablet share in calendar 2013."

Holt noted that Microsoft could see $2.5 billion in revenue if they enter into the iPad base.

The Morgan Stanley analyst concluded, "The math is compelling and may drive [Microsoft] to move Office."

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