5. Performance matters
Theres a big question mark related to Windows 8: how well will it perform on tablets? Windows 8 will be a winner for desktops and laptops and even Ultrabooks. But tablets are very different machines that require quick responsiveness, fast boot-ups and solid battery lives. Will Windows 8 be able to deliver that? Until customers can determine it, the platform wont succeed.
6. Wheres the innovation?
One can say what they want about Apples decision to include iOS in the iPad, but it makes for a uniquely mobile experience. For todays consumers and even enterprise users, thats important. With Microsoft, however, it plans to include the same operating system on its desktop and notebook in a tablet. Theres nothing unique about that and thats a problem.
7. Does Microsoft get tablets?
Theres no telling if Microsoft really gets tablets right now. After all, the company has been trying to make a splash in that space for the last few years and has failed miserably. Even worse, it hasnt been able to stay in the good graces of tablet vendors over the years (remember HP?). Who knows if Microsoft can get things right?
8. It all comes back to Android
When evaluating the chances of a company succeeding in todays hotly contested tablet market, its impossible to not consider the impact Android could have.
Googles platform is attracting a host of third-party vendors that Microsoft needs to be successful in the tablet market. One of Microsofts first battles in the tablet space will be proving to tablet vendors that Android really isnt the right platform for them.
9. Product design looks to be sub-par
Over the last several months, Microsoft and its vendor partners have been showing off some tablet concepts that could make their way to store shelves when Windows 8 launches. Theres just one problem: the market has yet to see tablet designs that can approaches the Apples iPad in features or performance. Product design is immensely important.
When will Microsoft and third-party vendors realize that?
10. A redesign of epic proportions
When its all said and done, the big question surrounding Windows 8 is whether the platform will be appealing to customers. Windows 8 is a major departure in design and functionality from its predecessors and theres no guarantee that consumers and enterprise users will be happy with this latest version. If Windows 8 falls short, dont expect tablets running the software to impress anyone.
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