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Microsoft Opens New Window for Touch Screens [analysis]Oct 12, 2011 (The Nation/All Africa Global Media via COMTEX) -- The Microsoft operating system (OS) is a common feature on many desk top computers. The company has had a number of versions of the OS with varied success and adoption globally. To spread its business into the tablet and touch-screen platforms, Microsoft has re-designed the windows OS. The new OS, codenamed Windows 8, is a futuristic idea of embracing the changes in the computing world and also, a bet on the growing market of touch-screen smart devices. Windows 8 runs on desk-tops as well as a wide range of devices and chipsets. Touch user Interface Windows 8 embodies simplicity for users to navigate on the screen using either a combination of mouse and key-board, or a touch gesture. However, the Metro style interface feature of the OS is optimised for touch-screen devices like tablets. This is one striking break from the traditional PC-based earlier versions of Windows. The Microsoft product is unique in its all-in-one package. It differs in design when compared with what is being offered by both Apple and Google. Apple has separate operating systems for mobile platforms and the MAC computers. The iPhones and iPads use the iOS while the PCs use the Mac OS X. Windows 8 has an optimised touch interface like the one on the Windows 7 phone. The Metro interface is a notable departure from the landmark mouse-and-keyboard GUI of Windows operating system. On running the OS, Windows 8 starts with the lock screen after booting. This is different from the traditional windows screen. At the bottom of the lock screen are indications of the battery strength, wireless/3G/wi-fi signal strength and a messages box. To get started, the user swipes the screen upwards or moves the mouse side-ways, thus opening the 'start screen'. This is a new experience and it spots the Metro interface. The screen has active 'tiles' for various applications. The user can navigate by touch or by clicking the mouse since the OS is technically hybrid. The applications are in both desk-top and metro-touch versions, giving the user an option depending on the device in use. Challenges and perspectives Windows 8 might help Microsoft stamp its authority in tablet computing. Microsoft is a titan in desk-top computing, but it seems to lag behind Apple and Google in tablet business. Way back in 2001, the company had revealed intentions of venturing in the tablet industry, but its strategy fell short of substantial implementation. The challenge for Microsoft is not only surviving the future of tablet computing but also ensuring that no flaws spoil the party for Windows 8. One of Microsoft's great misses has been in the Windows Vista operating system. The Vista OS failed to appeal to individuals and businesses due to technical flaws. Besides, the software developers did not provide substantial updates to support the operating system, hence diming its future. Unlike Vista, the other operating systems like Windows XP and Windows 7 have better performance, stability and security. Samsung and HTC are planning to launch smart phones powered by Windows phone 7, and tablets powered by Windows 8. Microsoft has plans for an App store to complement its ecosystem of desk tops, smart devices and developers and manufacture Esmond Shahonya Shahonya is a telecommunication engineer. |