Apple doesn't want Google having data on the iPhone that they get through their close-yet-fading relationship.
Microsoft in the mobile space is less of a threat. Also, since Bing has truly upped its mojo in the maps space - Apple would be providing iPhone users with a much better mapping service if Bing Maps were the native mapping app. (Pssst. That app can't be removed, by the way.)
For its part, Microsoft would get a huge boost in its desire to gain serious ground in the search game. Mobile is growing like crazy, thanks mostly to the iPhone.
For now, this is a big win-win for both Apple and Microsoft. In the long-term, Apple would still be smart to get invested in search independent of Google or Microsoft (can't say this enough!). I can't imagine they really want Microsoft close to their darling device for too long.
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
