We know that Microsoft’s Windows 8 will feature a tablet-friendly user interface, but it isn’t expected to launch until the end of 2012. So what does that mean for Windows and tablets in the meantime? Well, it looks like we won’t see Windows Phone 7 on tablets at any point in the future.
Microsoft’s Windows Phone president, Andy Lees, confirmed at the Microsoft Worldwide Partners Conference that we wouldn’t see Windows Phone 7 on any tablets. The reason he gave is that Microsoft sees the tablet as a PC rather than just a mobile device.
This means that we will have to wait until the launch of Windows 8 before we start to see new Windows Tablets with a new OS from Microsoft. Although there are a number of Windows 7 tablets available, they haven’t performed as well as Android or Apple’s iOS devices.
Windows 8: A New Hope for Tablets
From what we have seen of Windows 8 so far, it looks like a pretty good OS with an interesting user interface, which seems to work well on tablets. The new Metro interface, inspired by Windows Phone 7, is designed to be touch-friendly and intuitive. Whether this will be the case when the OS actually launches remains to be seen, but early impressions are promising.
Windows 8 aims to bridge the gap between traditional PCs and mobile devices. It introduces features like live tiles, which provide real-time updates, and a new app store, which will allow users to download and install apps easily. This could make Windows 8 tablets more competitive with iOS and Android devices.
Challenges and Expectations
However, there are challenges that Microsoft needs to overcome. One of the main issues is the app ecosystem. Both iOS and Android have a significant head start in terms of the number and quality of apps available. Microsoft will need to attract developers to create apps for Windows 8 to make it a viable alternative.
Another challenge is hardware. While Microsoft can control the software, the success of Windows 8 tablets will also depend on the hardware manufacturers. They need to produce devices that are not only powerful but also sleek and user-friendly. Competing with the likes of Apple’s iPad and high-end Android tablets will require a concerted effort from both Microsoft and its hardware partners.
Despite these challenges, there is a lot of excitement surrounding Windows 8. The integration of the OS across different types of devices, from desktops to tablets, could provide a seamless experience for users. This could be a significant advantage for Microsoft, as it leverages its existing user base and ecosystem.
In conclusion, while we won’t see Windows Phone 7 on tablets, the upcoming launch of Windows 8 holds a lot of promise. With its new user interface and features designed specifically for tablets, Windows 8 could be a game-changer in the tablet market. However, success will depend on how well Microsoft and its partners can execute their vision and overcome the challenges ahead.
Source: Electronista
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