Microsoft has today announced that they are making their mobile Windows operating system free for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets with screens that are 9 inches or less in size.
The new Windows free version is already now available for smartphone and tablet manufacturers who are developing mobile devices with screens 9 inches or smaller.
Significance of the Announcement
The announcement follows on from the recent price cut Microsoft made to their Windows 8.1 licenses, which was slashed by a massive 70 percent for some PC manufacturers. This move is seen as a strategic effort to compete more effectively with other operating systems, particularly Android and iOS, which dominate the mobile market. By making Windows free for devices with smaller screens, Microsoft aims to increase its market share in the mobile sector and encourage more manufacturers to adopt its operating system.
Microsoft refers to the new, free version as “Windows for Internet of Things,” and is including a free year of Office 365. This inclusion adds significant value for users, as Office 365 provides access to essential productivity tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This could be particularly appealing for business users and students who rely on these applications for their daily tasks.
Future Plans and Implications
Microsoft is also planning to offer a free version of Windows for low-power “Internet of Things” devices in the near future. The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a growing market, with an increasing number of devices being connected to the internet, from smart home appliances to wearable technology. By offering a free version of Windows for these devices, Microsoft is positioning itself to be a key player in the IoT space.
This strategy could have several implications. For one, it could lead to a broader adoption of Windows in various types of devices, not just traditional PCs and mobile devices. This could help create a more unified ecosystem of Windows-powered devices, making it easier for users to integrate and manage their technology. Additionally, it could spur innovation among manufacturers, who might be more willing to experiment with new types of devices if they don’t have to worry about the cost of the operating system.
As more information is released by Microsoft regarding these plans, we will keep you updated as always. This move by Microsoft is part of a broader trend in the tech industry towards offering software for free and monetizing through other means, such as subscriptions and services. It will be interesting to see how this strategy plays out and whether it will help Microsoft gain a stronger foothold in the competitive mobile and IoT markets.
Source: Verge
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
