Microsoft's Late Entry into Tablet Market: A Forecast from Citigroup

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft's foray into the tablet computer market is likely to occur in 2013, according to a report by Citigroup. The software giant plans to launch a next-generation operating system for tablets before its release for personal computers. Citigroup predicts a lukewarm reception for the new operating system, which may not significantly boost Microsoft's presence in the consumer equipment field. The report suggests that Microsoft's lack of market share in the tablet market is due to the need for a competitive operating system.

Key Takeaways:

  • Citigroup predicts Microsoft will launch the test version of next-generation Windows in September 2011.
  • The formal version of the operating system is expected to be released between January 2012 and March 2013.
  • Citigroup believes that next-generation Windows will not make a great success in the market.
  • Investors consider the operating system will not greatly boost Microsoft's status in the consumer equipment field.
  • Microsoft needs to launch a competitive operating system to gain significant market share in the tablet computer market.
  • Citigroup expects Microsoft to occupy a tiny space in the tablet computer market by 2013.

Statistics:

  • The predicted release date for the test version of next-generation Windows: September 2011.
  • The expected release period for the formal version of the operating system: January 2012 to March 2013.
  • Citigroup's forecasted market performance for next-generation Windows: lukewarm reception.

Sources:

  • SinoCast Daily Business Beat via COMTEX, "Beijing, May 30, 2011"
  • Comtex News Network, Inc., "05-26-2011 23:59"