I wonder if that feedback includes the fact that 8 reportedly is a bear in working with other apps. Without providing dates or mentioning specific product launches, Klein said Microsoft is working on a successor to Windows 8 code-named, Windows Blue. He added that, “We are working with OEMs on a new suite of small touch devices powered by Windows.” In the back-to-school-selling season, Microsoft will utilize Intel’s latest generation of processors to power tablets and hybrid PCs with extended battery-life, along with offering more and lower-priced devices. Klein also said that the Microsoft stores will provide “better in-store product differentiation. The company also said it is developing in-member database technology in SQL Server, also without providing many details. That clearly is a response to SAP’s roaring success with its Hana in-member database technology. The outlook for the fourth quarter shows what Microsoft is responding to. Klein noted that in the Windows division OEM revenue will be impacted “by the declining traditional pc market as we work to increase or share in tablets.”
M’SOFT SETS MOBILE, TOUCH INTROS
Microsoft used its third-quarter earnings webcast to broadly outline its plans to develop mobile and touch devices that utilize Windows 8. And in general, it spent a lot of time talking about rolling out technology in areas in which it is playing catch up. “With Windows 8. we are setting an accelerated pace for updates and innovation,” said CFO Peter Klein, who announced he will be retiring to spend more time with his family when the fiscal year ends in June.
KIein said Microsoft had delivered several important updates to the latest version of its operating system “as responding to customer feedback.”
