Is Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) ready to release their version of the iPad? Maybe. There has been recent reports of Microsoft’s plans to introduce their version of a tablet computer sometime next week during a press event.
It’s speculated that this new device will run on Windows RT which is the latest Microsoft platform that was originally created to keep ARM-powered computers and tablets on the thinner side.
Unfortunately, there are no details about RT-powered devices although there are rumors that it may actually cost more than the iPad which is currently the most expensive tablet on the market. One reason for the expected drive-up in costs is the Office Productivity Suite which is reported to be worth $85.00.
If this rumor is true, it won’t be the first time Microsoft has made an effort to make their dent in the tablet computer market. There’s already plenty of tablet PCs on the market that utilize Windows operating systems like the Dell Latitude ST Tablet with Windows 7 and the Lenovo ThinkPad X220t convertible tablet. Of course it’s important to note that none of their tablets have come even close to Apple’s Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL) iPad or Google’s Android tablets.
Is it too late for Microsoft to venture in tablet territory? Many people think that’s the case but they also think that is going to hurt them in the long run.
I think that Microsoft might want to steer clear from the tablet territory for now. That’s not because I think that Microsoft doesn’t really have a chance to successfully sell tablets, it’s because I think that it’s just a trend right now. Sure, Apple is reeling in the money from their innovative product iPad but for how long? Except for Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Android tablets like the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet, I highly doubt there’s even room on the market for another tablet. Consumers love the iPad and I guess there’s really no room for improvement.
