Originally posted on our sister-site, WP-Life.com
Microsoft appears to be taking a page out of Google’s book, at least more recently, that in order to compete with Apple’s juggernaut, the iPad, Microsoft (like Google) is preparing to offer its own internally designed and built tablet computer.
This coming Monday, June 18th, Microsoft is set to make a “major” announcement, that according to All Things D, will focus on their tablet version of Windows 8. At first, many assumed that we’d see some third-party hardware running the new Mobile OS, be it from Samsung, Acer or even ASUS (the same company who’s making Google’s own Nexus tablet). However, according to sources, it appears that Microsoft feels that it needs to design and build its own tablet, which will help unify their ecosystem. We’re not sure if this tablet will be the full fledged Windows 8 tablet version or Windows RT, the stripped down variation that will run off ARM processors, but won’t be able to run full desktop applications.
This is a sticky situation for Microsoft, as they need to be careful not to upset third-party OEM’s by making their own hardware. We’ve already seen how some manufacturers have taken the news when Google bought Motorola, the last thing Microsoft needs are OEM’s refusing to build Windows RT tablets in favor of Android devices. Microsoft also needs to be cautious with this tablet, the last time they tried to encroach on Apple’s territory (the Zune vs. the iPod), things didn’t exactly pan out. Microsoft’s done a great job with their Metro UI and software recently, but they haven’t exactly had the most success with their hardware designs.
We only have about 4 days to wait, but you can bet we’ll be covering Microsoft’s announcement, be sure to check WP-Life.com to for all your Windows and Windows Phone news.