There’s been much speculation about next-gen tablets powered by Microsoft Windows 7. However, recent rumors point towards a Redmond-branded tablet featuring a specialized UI running on top of a standard Windows 7 kernel.
Unsurprisingly, the above-mentioned rumors seemed to fall flat amongst users and analysts who think Windows 7 is an OS primarily designed for PCs – and should stay there.
But is a tablet running on good old Windows 7 necessarily a bad idea?
Nicole Scott of Netbook News says, “No, the reason why Windows 7 for tablets is exciting is because there’s a huge amount of program familiarity, which makes using new technology much more accessible for the average consumer.”
Scott explains that if a user wants a tablet to use in conjunction with a home system, then a Windows tablet could be a great choice.
“It [obviously] depends on what kind of tablet experience you’re looking for.”
Aside from users bored or unsatisfied with the idea of any iteration of a Windows 7 tablet, some analysts argue that without a new, fresh interface, Microsoft tablets don’t stand a chance when compared to the super slick Apple iPad.
“[Of course], you can’t write Windows 7 tablets off completely even though the company will need to address some fundamental issues. Some call adding a [specialized] UI onto a Windows 7 tablet is like ‘putting lipstick on a pig,’ but you really can’t underestimate the power of brand recognition,” says Scott.
No doubt.
Yes, this is definitely Microsoft’s big chance to make a killer UI for its tablets that will wow consumers, while maintaining the familiar elements us PC users know and love.
