iPad and noise.io

[Peter Korsten]

Op 1-2-2010 13:56, Don't t(h)read on my tentacles, Earthling! schreef:

> Le 29 janv. 2010 à 01:24, Peter Korsten a écrit :
>
>> I want a tablet, but based on an OS that is developer-friendly, and
>> open, and embraces standards.
>>
>> In other words, Windows.

Hey, I'm not saying that Microsoft is happily embracing open standards. 
Heck, they got a patent lawsuit against them because they used XML as a 
format for Word, and lost. Including the appeal.

But what with the regulatory pressure, mainly from Europe, they have 
been forced to be more open. And I have to say, Windows 7 is a pretty 
sweet operating system, even on a five year old system.

The big difference between Apple and Microsoft is that Apple sells 
complete solutions for pretty narrowly defined markets - both hardware, 
software and content - whereas Microsoft sells software for several 
broad areas.

The Xbox is Microsoft's attempt to break out of their traditional 
business areas, but I'm not under the impression that it's bringing them 
a lot of money. And their muscle in the OS business has meant nothing 
for success on smart phones.

Apple and Microsoft do have a certain overlap, and it'll be interesting 
to see what happens in those areas where they compete head to head.

But by definition, Microsoft is more open than Apple. They have to be, 
because they are dependent on third parties - and that is part of their 
success as well. On the other hand, Apple controls everything, and has 
absolutely no inclination to open their products to others so that they 
could start making money without wetting Apple's beak.

- Peter