Over the past few years it has become obviously apparent that Microsoft has lost its strangle hold in the consumer technology market. In the early to mid 90s Microsoft was synonymous with technology, innovation, and the future. As an Apple user since 1999 I can remember being technologically ostracized and different from nearly every one of my peers. As I glance around my classrooms today I see the ratio of Apple computers and PCs nearly even. This is just one example of decreased market share I have noticed regarding Microsoft. This problem is even more exacerbated with regards to Internet browsers, with many open source browsers becoming the popular choice. Microsoft is at a crucial point where it needs to decide if it is going to continue to compete in the commercial computing sector and develop the mobile products that consumers desire. It is very interesting and alarming that once such a leader in consumer computing is now struggling to find a foothold for the future.
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/27/technology/microsoft_pdc/index.htm
You're absolutely right about Microsoft being at an inflection point. They've fallen hopelessly behind in the web browser market and they are trying to play catch up in the search and mobile markets. I've tried Bing, and while I like it, I don't see a compelling reason to choose it over Google. Along those same lines, I've heard good things about Windows Phone 7, but will it be enough to get people to switch from iPhone and Android? Probably not. Maybe it can convert some Blackberry users.
ReplyDeleteMicrosoft's problem for years now has been a lack of leadership from the top. You get the sense that Steve Balmer and his team just don't "get it." It's as if technology has passed them by and they'll forever be playing catch up. I guess as long as their cash cows, Windows and Office, continue to do well, the board will allow Balmer to stay the course.