The Slow Death of Windows

TechAltar2 minutes read

Windows has seen a significant decline in market share over the years, with Mac OS showing strong consumer preference in the US. Microsoft's focus on refining Windows 11, addressing the chip issue, and integrating AI into the operating system could potentially boost their success in the future.

Insights

  • Windows has been steadily losing market share for almost 15 years, dropping to the low 60s globally, while Mac OS holds over 20% and Chrome OS and desktop Linux are above 3% each, showcasing a significant shift in the operating system landscape.
  • Microsoft's recent focus on refining the core PC experience with Windows 11, addressing legacy bloat and embracing visual modernization, marks a departure from previous failed attempts to adapt to new technologies, signaling a potential resurgence for the operating system.

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Recent questions

  • What is the current market share of Windows?

    Windows has dropped from 95% to the low 60s worldwide.

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Summary

00:00

Windows Market Share Decline and Challenges Ahead

  • Windows has been losing market share for almost 15 years, dropping from 95% to the low 60s worldwide, while Mac OS holds over 20% and Chrome OS and desktop Linux are above 3% each.
  • In the US, over 30% of consumers use Mac, showing a strong preference for Apple.
  • Sales of PCs have been steadily decreasing since 2011, with Microsoft's operating system losing share in a declining market.
  • Microsoft attempted to reinvent Windows over the past decade, but these efforts often made the system worse, creating legacy bloat.
  • Windows 8 marked the start of a cycle where Microsoft tried and failed to adapt to new technologies like VR, mixed reality, and dual-screen devices.
  • Windows 11 breaks this pattern by focusing on refining the core PC experience, including visual modernization and new features for inbox apps.
  • Microsoft needs to address the chip issue, with Apple's arm-based M series chips giving Mac OS an advantage in performance and power efficiency.
  • Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X Series chips aim to compete with Apple's M series, offering promising performance and power efficiency.
  • Microsoft must also improve software compatibility on Windows on arm, as many apps still run in emulation or have performance issues.
  • Microsoft's focus on integrating AI into every aspect of the operating system could be their next big success, leveraging their expertise in the field and exclusive access to OpenAI products.

14:58

Enhancing Productivity with AI and Mod Mic

  • AI integrations in productivity apps like Office and VSS code could greatly enhance tasks such as writing, coding, and data crunching on PCs, potentially making a significant impact on Windows platform.
  • The Mod Mic, a wireless microphone that can be attached to headphones, offers high-quality audio for Zoom calls and gaming sessions, with features like 12 hours of battery life, a mute button, and a reliable Bluetooth connection. Available for around $140, a 15% discount can be obtained using the code ta15, with additional products like in-ear monitors also offered by the company.
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