We have previously reported comparisons between the Apple iPad and just about every other device that resembles it in the slightest to see if anything can compete. We have looked at Acer’s tablet PCs that are potentially planned for launch in April; we have even looked at a date war between the BlackBerry PlayBook and the Apple iPad 2.
We have all heard the rumors of Microsoft craftily showing a number of tablet PCs at CES 2011; in fact, it seems that half the gadgets and gizmo’s that will be there are tablets! There is also speculation that any of the tablets may be sporting Windows 8.
So why would Microsoft lose out to Apple? Don Reisinger over at eWeek.com has come up with 10 reasons why Apple may get ahead of their competitor. Whilst we don’t necessarily agree with all 10 of Reisinger’s reasons he does make some valid points.
The main thing that we at OSM think will drive the sales of the iPad 2 ahead of all other competitors is the sheer popularity of all Apple products, especially in the tablet PC market. Both tablets will run on different operating systems, the iOS and Windows; however when choosing between the two that will come down to personal preference for the consumer.
Are Microsoft too busy trying to break into the smartphone market, which is also partially dominated by Apple with the different iPhone models? Reisinger correctly points out that Microsoft are the domineering force in the world of PCs with MS Office being the most used productivity suite. The thing is, when it comes to the world of mobile technology, Microsoft just don’t seem to be able to do it.
Another reason behind Apple being a driving force is their attention to detail when it comes to user requirements. Devices like the iPad appeal to all ages for most purposes such as web browsing, reading, gaming even showing your friends and family pictures. You never know what’s next with Apple, who would have thought of releasing a tablet in a diminished market, only to rejuvenate and dominate it? In this case, Steve Jobs, I salute you.
For Microsoft to have any realistic chance of success from the publicity of the CES 2011 event, there are certain things they must do; otherwise we can see them falling flat on their faces again. They must release more than 1 tablet (as planned) on a variety of screen sizes to cover all bases. Then they have to ensure that each device has features that make aspects of their tablets either future proof or useful, like front-and-rear facing cameras and USB 3.0 ports. These are just a few of the sought after things that consumers want.
If Microsoft were to introduce something innovative to their tablets by incorporating something never seen before on a device of this size, like the Xbox 360 Kinect camera’s to make the machine more interactive then they could be onto a winner. We can imagine a tablet PC being able to look at depth, but perhaps that will be in the future.
What do you think? Can Microsoft stand up to Apple in this market, or will Apple continue to steamroll? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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