Demand for Windows 8 exceeding Windows 7, Ballmer says
- — 29 October, 2012 22:47
Microsoft has seen strong initial demand for its Windows 8 operating system, according to CEO Steve Ballmer.
Speaking at an event to launch Windows Phone 8, a new operating system for smartphones, Ballmer said the new computer operating system was greeted with enthusiasm at its launch on Friday.
"We're seeing preliminary demand well above where we were with Windows 7, which is gratifying," he said. "We're seeing retailers here in the United States and hardware manufacturers enthusiastic about the response."
(See video of Ballmer speaking on Monday.)
When Windows 8 went on sale Friday, there were lines at Microsoft Stores across the U.S., although many of those waiting said they were more interested in Surface, a Microsoft-developed tablet computer that went on sale the same day. Windows 8 is available both in stores and through online download.
The new OS brings touch to the desktop operating system.
"The demand for touch on all-in-ones and laptops, in addition to tablets, has been really quite astounding, and certainly the lines we've seen at the Microsoft Stores have been heartening," Ballmer said.
Windows 8 features a redesigned desktop built around tiles, rectangular boxes that act as links to apps, services and information about friends. Windows Phone 8 features the same tiles, and Microsoft hopes that when consumers become familiar with the tiles, it will help to sell phones.
Martyn Williams covers mobile telecoms, Silicon Valley and general technology breaking news for The IDG News Service. Follow Martyn on Twitter at @martyn_williams. Martyn's e-mail address is martyn_williams@idg.com
Comments
IT_Observer
1
is totally ridiculous for Microsoft to think all Windows users will embrace the new OS version, it was said that business are sceptical due to the radical changes made, this is not the windows we know and use; medical centres use Windows XP, and many business depend on it, a few may have moved to Windows 7, this move will spell disaster for Microsoft (didn't got a lesson with Windows Vista to make such hasty move and try to convince the unwary)
This is no bold move to the future, this is suicide, people will react to keep their existing OS until it dies, Move to Linux or buy a Mac; PC sales will be ruined by a ridiculous perception people will meekly accept what Microsoft dictates.
IT_Pro
2
@IT_Observer: XP is still used because software companies are too lazy to update their software for Windows 7 compatibility. Take for example the lack of 64-bit ODBC drivers from MYOB even though they have had 10 years to develop them. This will be the developers downfall with Win8 released, as it allows backyard developers with low budgets to produce a great piece of software and have MS market it. As an IT professional I can tell you most businesses are already envisioning what Windows 8 will enable them to do that they couldn't do before and they are excited about it.