Microsoft releases its highly anticipated Windows 10 operating system amidst skepticism of whether it will allow the company to remain the king of desktops as well as become a real contender in the mobile space. Among other exciting features, Windows 10 boasts of one operating system for any device with universal apps to keep the user experience consistent across platforms.
The Continuum feature of Windows 10 could be a game changer for Microsoft as Windows 10 makes it possible to adjust the user interface at will. A Microsoft tablet automatically can switch back and forth from a desktop or tablet interface by connecting a keyboard or other accessories. A smartphone can function as essentially a mini computer by connecting a monitor and keyboard and having all applications accommodate the larger screen for a seamless experience. In fact, the experience of working on a PC or a phone connected to a monitor is exactly the same.
Continuum alone should be enough to get you excited about Windows 10 and the direction Microsoft is leading. We’ve seen a shift from desktops to laptops, to tablets, and now to mobile and Windows 10. Universal apps will keep you up to date across any device with a consistent user interface. Down the road employees could simply be issued smartphones and Office 365 corporate memberships with a desk station equipped with a monitor, Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Mobile workers armed with smartphones in the field will be able to see exactly what their counterparts in the office see. The potential efficiency is intoxicating for organizations willing to embrace these new concepts.
A goal expressed by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella of 1 billion Windows powered devices by 2019 may seem like a stretch with the worldwide shipments of desktops expected to fall by 5% in 2015 and an ever-growing trend towards mobile. Microsoft isn’t relinquishing control just yet, however, with more than 9 in 10 desktops currently running Windows operating systems and free upgrades to Windows 10 being offered until Summer 2016. The corporate market remains cornered by Microsoft and with greater integration offered with universal apps including the Office Suite with Office 365, organizations will soon adopt Windows 10 as an enterprise IT standard.
The real success for Windows 10 and Microsoft will be based on how users respond to the new functionality and use the technology in creative and groundbreaking ways.
