Microsoft Details Windows on ARM, Desktop Apps Support

[cirdecus]

ARM has dominated the tablet and mobile market, mainly because of the software, not the hardware. Android running on ARM meant for a very inexpensive device. If windows follows the same model, it can provide a windows based tablet for ARM at the same price-point. Given that the software will create a link between x86 and ARM, Microsoft is basically using their ARM compatibility to pull people back to the x86 platform. Without pricing advantages, Android won't have much of a chance as a mobile operating system. If you gave me the choice between a full windows tablet and an Android tablet/smartphone at the exact same price, I'll obviously choose the device that runs windows. Consumers want one platform for every device they own. They Unless Google can release a desktop/laptop/server OS to challenge Windows, Microsoft is going to simply consume these other devices with Windows 8

 

[cirdecus]

We also have to remember the reason why tablets even exist. Apple was able to create the segment by focusing on key tasks that a tablet could do much better than a laptop or a desktop. These simple tasks included web browsing, crazy amounts of apps for just about everything and email\social networking.

There are still key tasks that tablets don't do well, like writing a 20 page research paper, playing high-end video games, etc.

What's interesting is that these tablets could gain traction with the above tasks and pull some people away from traditional laptops and desktops if microsoft can design windows 8 well enough to allow for it. Imagine a complete redesign of office that is built for touch. Friendly for lengthy word processing, long emails and even complicated spreadsheets.

The hardware is there or is right around the corner for all of these tasks. The problem is the software and user interaction. Sure, you may be able to run the Unreal 4 engine on an iPad 3, but how well can you actually play a game without the input devices available on a PC or console? Software is going to have to bring these things together and Windows 8 has a chance at doing so.

 

[alyoshka]

Isn't that SoC Board on Adhesive Stand-offs a Raspberry Pi?