Musings on Microsoft's Windows and Windows Phone 8.1Apples to Oranges!For many years I have been a fan of Microsoft, as a user and a developer. From the days before Windows, all the way back to dos 1.0. Prior to that time I spent many years with The Heath Operating System. If memory serves me, I believe that even some components of the Heath System were very similar to the original Microsoft dos system. Yes, in years past I have used Apple Computers, but found that they were more like toys than computer system. Now, both companies have something to offer for business and personal use. Currently, I have both Apple and Microsoft systems. Unfortunately, the Apple systems, although beautiful to look at, are sitting in the corner collecting dust. By-the-way, these are the latest Apple systems. Both systems can do basically the same thing but since the purpose of this blog is to discuss Windows and Windows Phone, I shall part with the Apple for now.Why Microsoft?Microsoft is the system of choice for a major number of businesses since the early days of Windows. That majority now seems to be threatened by other systems and not just Apple. Is it the completely new look of the Windows 8 interface? Although not a necessity, I find it odd that so many people dislike it and want to do away with it. Personally, I still use and love the Windows Desktop. Probably because, like many others, I understand it and really feel comfortable with it. As a developer, I consistently use it even to develop new Windows 8 and Windows Phone apps.Businesses seem to be overly concerned about the new Windows platform. This is not a reason to switch to Apple. And if your business and employees aren't familiar with Linux, forget-about-it. Windows Professional offers the best of both worlds for businesses. You may recall Windows Me and Windows Vista. These were near disasters as operating systems but remember what came of them, Windows XP and Windows 7, two of the most stable platforms ever developed by Microsoft. As I understand it, Microsoft is currently working on a new Windows to be released in the near future.This brings us to Windows RT. I have it and love it, but I will admit that it has its limitations. No, I would not recommend Windows RT for businesses. I see it like the Apple IPad, a great toy for playing games, with the ability to do a minimal amount of business. There is one thing of a concern for Windows RT, the lack of software. I know that developers are working on many new programs, but the number of apps available for RT leaves much to be desired.Finally Windows Phone! Windows Phone is far superior to both IPhone and Android. I guess if you have a Windows Phone and use it, you will understand why. The layout is great and can be made to look much more attractive than any of the others. But here again, the lack of quality software is limiting its use. When looking for software for the Windows Phone, it always seems like companies only want to offer software for other phones. I find this extremely frustrating and can only hope that it will change soon. Finally, how do I feel about Microsoft and their platforms? I'm sure that Windows will continue to thrive and will be used by most businesses and individuals. As for Windows RT, I don't believe it offers enough to continue to be successful. Although some future variations of this platform may turn up looking strong. My biggest concern is Windows Phone. I really believe Windows phone is the absolute best phone platform on the market today. I can only hope that it will continue to grow and not go the way of the Blackberry.Happy Computing,Troy McCoach, CSE
