Posted on March 21st, 2011Microsoft is currently working hard to get users on board with the current versions of their operating system and documents programs; Windows 7 and Office 2010. However, with the continued advancement of software development companies, the future of Windows could be uncertain.
Steps for Improvement
Following the Vista operating system debacle, Microsoft released the robust Windows 7, Office 2010 and Office 365 beta. However, the company must discover the next big program from its next operating system and applications. The first step Microsoft must take is to make a dent in a world that has become obsessed with tablets and other interesting gadgets. The second step is to convert to cloud-friendly files since the entire market is moving in that direction.
Finally, the most critical step, Microsoft must rise above the threat of the Google Chrome operating system and other emerging competitions. Google Chrome OS is lingering on the horizon and due to the previous success and innovation of Google; it will be a serious blow to Microsoft once released.
Microsoft Keeping Tight Lips
As a result, Microsoft is remaining quiet with regards to the new Windows 8 release which is tentatively due in 2012. The company is also not saying much about the next version of Office. Due to the mystery behind these two powerful software programs, this is sparking interest in the technology community for what’s to come. Unfortunately most of the available information is based on speculation. However, some screenshots have been leaked to the internet community.
Windows 8 plus IE10
Although Internet Explorer 9 was recently released, many speculate that the Windows 8 will be shipped with IE10, a touch-based browser. This is a logical move as it helps Microsoft standardize its presence between desktops, laptops and tablets. Also, the browser war between Microsoft, Google and Mozilla continues so none of the three can fall behind with features.
Cloud-Friendly Features
Windows 8 is expected to be cloud-friendly with cloud-based user profiles and storage space. This would allow users to log on to any machine within their organization and access email, data and other files without the need to carry a laptop. Leaked internet screenshots display a user’s profile picture in the system tray.
Windows 8 and the upcoming version of Office must be better or at least keep par with the release of the Google Chrome OS or else Microsoft will begin to lag behind its innovative counterpart. Over the next two years, there will be a war of the operating systems between Windows, Mac and now Google.