Microsoft announced earlier this week that it will be reversing course with Windows 8 due to customer complaints and the "steep learning curve" of adapting to the new version of Windows. Why has Microsoft finally had to come to the conclusion of admitting it's software just wasn't what they were expecting?
When Windows 8 was released, Microsoft had hoped to create an operating system that would be touch-screen compatible and user friendly to keep up with the touchscreen operating systems on the ever popular iPad and iPad mini from Apple. Microsoft was hoping to be a very aggressive competitor to Apple with tablet sales.
However, Windows 8 rolled out a new user interface design that many users had never dealt with before. Users complained that the new interface was hard to navigate and the learning curve was very difficult to pick up on. The most prominent feature missing in Windows 8 was the "Start" button in the lower left hand corner. Consumers did not like the "desktop feel and design" missing from Windows 8 and wanted the Start button back since most navigation began there.
Was it also slumping sales that forced Microsoft's hand? Studies on the market and sales show that PC sales are down drastically as the sales of tablets and touchscreen devices continue to soar. A more mobile than ever population is moving away from a PC desktop environment. While Microsoft claims that Windows 8 is still a good competitive operating system to use for consumers, studies show that out of almost 2 million tablet devices running Windows 8 or a similar version called RT, it only gives Microsoft just 2% of the total market.
Windows is quickly falling behind in competing and had to make a drastic change. Will the new design of Windows "Blue" be able to save Windows 8 and make it more user friendly? Blue is scheduled to be released and hit shelves just before this year's holiday season. Will it be holiday cheers or holiday jeers this year for Microsoft? Time will tell...
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