Microsoft Unveils Windows 7-Based Tablet Devices to Counter iPad Frenzy

Microsoft Corporation's CEO Steve Ballmer showcased new tablet-style devices running on the Windows 7 operating system at the company's annual partner conference in Washington, D.C. The move is a direct response to Apple Inc's iPad, which has been gaining immense popularity since its launch in April. Ballmer emphasized the importance of pushing forward with Windows 7-based slates, highlighting the significance of the smart device category for Microsoft.

Key Takeaways:

• Microsoft has partnered with around 20 manufacturers, including Acer Inc, Dell Inc, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, Toshiba Corp, and Sony Corp, to develop new tablet or slate devices.
• Ballmer specifically mentioned that one of the most important areas for Microsoft this year will be to push forward with Windows 7-based slates.
• Apple's iPad has sold over 2 million units worldwide since its launch in April, posing a threat to Microsoft's dominance in the desktop computing market.
• Hewlett-Packard Co (HP), the world's No. 1 PC maker, is not participating in Microsoft's effort to develop Windows 7-based slates, despite being listed on a slide of PC makers working on slates.
• Microsoft is also concentrating on developing "cloud" services, such as the Windows Azure platform appliance, which allows companies to manage their data and computing power over the Internet.

Statistics:

• Apple's iPad has sold over 2 million units worldwide since its launch in April.
• Microsoft shares were up almost 2 percent at $24.75 on Nasdaq.
• The Windows Azure platform appliance is being tested by companies such as eBay Inc, Fujitsu Ltd, and Dell.

Sources:

• Reuters, "Microsoft Unveils Windows 7-Based Tablet Devices to Counter iPad Frenzy"
• Microsoft Corporation, "CEO Steve Ballmer's Remarks at the Productivity and Security Event"
• Apple Inc, "iPad Press Release (April 2010)"
• Hewlett-Packard Co, "HP Announces Plans to Acquire Palm Inc"