My own predictions
To be clear, I’m not suggesting that Microsoft’s Windows 8 devices, like the Surface Pro tablet, will be a complete failure. Obviously, there are a number of people who prefer the Windows OS (just over 7.5% of the market). However, the design, speed, and functionality of Androids and iPads are just too far ahead of anything that Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) will be able to produce. The company is entering the tablet race after its competitors have already pulled so far ahead that they’re barely visible. The issue, though, is not one of physical specs or software limitations, as Gates described in his prediction for the future of the tech market. Instead, the issue that will most dramatically negatively restrict Microsoft from capturing significant market share is the Windows operating system.
As most of the computer world knows, Windows has always been glitchy and temperamental, resulting in a computing experience that often ends in repeated bouts of frustration, pulling your hair out, banging your head on the desk, or (my personal favorite) heaving the darned machine out the window. Since Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) hasn’t really changed the internal programming structure of the Windows OS, at least not significantly enough to alleviate the common inconsistencies and troublesome glitches, most consumers are likely to assume that Windows 8 devices will experience the same issues. This fact alone will continue to steer buyers to competitors’ devices.
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG), on the other hand, designed the Android operating system around the open-source Linux operating system, which is a much more stable, although unpopular, platform. Similarly, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s devices run on the company’s proprietary OS, which has been renowned for its awesome stability. Microsoft’s Windows OS may be more popular with the mainstream desktop PC community, but that certainly doesn’t translate to a better or more popular mobile device. And, just because Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) decided to enter the tablet arena doesn’t make the company’s stock more valuable or desirable.
Foolish bottom line
I must admit that I’ve always respected Bill Gates and his ability to lead one of the oldest and largest technology companies. The man is on the board of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.A), so if Warren Buffett values his opinions then who am I to question them? Well, in this case, I think I might get more accurate insight on the future of mobile electronics by calling The Psychic Hotline than by listening to Gates’ most recent predictions!
Greg Gambone has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Apple and Google. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
