Apple vs Microsoft: Personal computers, once a workhorse for consumer tech industry, has risen from the ashes.
Apple vs Microsoft: Personal computers, once a workhorse for consumer tech industry, has risen from the ashes. They have made a comeback and just shown how they have aged well. With global tech giants Microsoft and Apple, releasing their PCs a day apart, it is an indelible fact that they are convinced that desktops are not dead. The interesting thing to note here is that both the companies who chose to put a stamp of authority on personal computers have a long history to look back to, and however strong they may be with their respective technologies, they are the opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to the kinds of user bases. Microsoft seemed to be an afterthought in the tech world, having slept through the mobile revolution. But Satya Nadella’s steps prove that we just can’t write off Microsoft and that the CEO is making good on his promises to bring ‘innovative products that people loved’. Microsoft, with productivity as its forte, was once known for a no-option desktop for workers in cubicles. But the way the company presented its products in New York on October 26, speaks volumes about its innovation and passion.
Microsoft unveiled a new desktop, with technology earned through Surface tablets – touchscreen and pen. The big-screen 28-inch PC known as the Surface Studio rests on a sleek chrome arm, adjustable to flat angles; different for different professions. Writers can sit straight and write, while sketchers can lay it flat and use the screen as a huge canvas. The Microsoft PC also comes with a hockey puck-like dial and a mouse. The dial can be used to change things directly through the screen, or off it. The minimalism of the Surface Studio is reminiscent of Apple Macs’ love for design. At a time when creativity is taking over the world, where the lines between work and play domains are blurring, Microsoft after a long time seems to be joining the race at the right time. It is a race for devices for creative types, where Apple has always been leading, but Microsoft seems eager to push open the space of old rivalry. Interestingly, Apple will also launch the refreshing new MacBooks, which has been a long time coming. With Apple aiming for productivity and Microsoft setting targets on creativity, it remains to be seen whose innovation gets more consumer love.
Not so long ago, tablets were touted as devices to begin the massacre of PCs. While being great for internet and movies, eventually users realised that they cannot replace desktops for writing, designing and hardcore gaming. Apart from that small touchscreen keyboards were no substitute, added to the revolution of smartphones. All of this has now lead to a start in the resurgence of the PCs, and tablets have started writing their own premature obituaries.
Apple has made it clear with its launch of new MacBooks that it want to make its foray into Microsoft’s domain of the world of business. With the way both of them will sell high-end products clearly indicate the target of premium buyers. But the sales will indicate how they perform and whether newer products will be launched for budget buyers.With 3D models and augmented and virtual reality being the new in thing, it is only a matter of time when we will see them being a part of every range and lineups.With Windows 10 Creators edition, it is clear how they are innovating with its software as well. Peoples bar, personal emojis and Beam, Microsoft is luring in consumers by making streaming and communicating easier than ever.
There are a few other things to note, which will mark the milestones for the revolution. Encryption will make it less of a hardware-based security, and more of virtual guarding like TPM, Secure Boot and Credential Guard. Biometric support will minimise the friction of sign-ins. The fact that with the ever evolving technology the focus on CPU specs will be lesser than the comfort of usage. And add to all this, not being biased with legacy, instead of accepting drastic changes will be the key to innovations like USB type-C.
Nevertheless, one has to accept, that desktop computing may never make it to the central position in personal computing, as mobile devices have already made deep inroads. But PCs will always be easier and the first choice for offices, business and wealthy homes. Apple is quite late into the reimagining of its MacBooks, yet with the way both Apple and Microsoft are betting on new premium devices, it is clear they are going to stay and their place in certain spheres are more secure than what tech watchers imagined it to be.
Sourse: financialexpress.com