Technology Behind The Tablet PC Windows Version
According to Microsoft, the Tablet PC Windows users see is a ‘Slate PC’ designed to be mobile, ergonomic and light-weight. Apart from the flatness and the small size, the other main difference is in the input method, with a pen and touch screen being used instead of the traditional mouse and keyboard. But there’s more to it, so let’s take a peek inside it and see why these tablets are selling like hot cakes.
The things that need looking into include the usability features, applications and the reliability of the device. Then there’s also the staying power of the hardware and software technology used. This matters a great deal because this is still an evolving sector, and anything which doesn’t click within a year ends up discontinued without any support.
Image by Getty Images via @daylife
Obviously, Microsoft users have a lot less to worry about in this regard, because Windows is a hugely popular OS across many different platforms. Also to be noted that the initial XP version for tablets did very well. Microsoft then changed their strategy and instead of a stand-alone version for tablets, they’re now offering built in support for tablets in the regular Home/Business versions of Vista and Windows 7.
Not having a separate version for tablets may seem like they’re not giving special attention to tablets anymore. But actually it means that these users will now get regular upgrades and updates along with regular desktop PC and laptop users. They won’t have to wait or beg Microsoft to provide them with a special new version every time the company puts out something new for regular users.
Getting back to the usability and applications, Microsoft has provided some nifty additions over and above the usual mobile and lightweight model for tablets. It uses Microsoft’s Gesture Recognizer and has two tiers of gestures that can be used with the pen. Additionally, users can make use of handwriting recognition software and touch-screen mouse inputs using fingers.
The handwriting recognition software learns quickly based on the user’s input and it can be personalized. There’s a personalization tool where the user can provide samples so that the software can match it against samples and recognizes the user’s handwriting during actual use. The touch screen allows mouse input using fingers and is based on Microsoft surface technology.
Geek talk aside, readers may understandably be curious about how MS tablets stack up against other tablets like the iPad, Palm TouchPad, Android-enabled tablets, etc. It’s not so much a question of technology or features as it is about loyalty. No matter how much better (or not) it is, Apple fanatics won’t be using anything except the iPad, while Microsoft users habituated to the familiar Windows interface will find the MS tablets more to their liking.
Those choosing to be Tablet PC Windows users are likely to get a product that’s rock solid and based on cutting-edge technology. Furthermore, it will continue to enjoy support and upgrades from Microsoft. Let’s just say that it may not generate as much buzz as the iPad or Android tablets, but it is just as useful and reliable, if not more.
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Category: Computer Hardware
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I also support this. It’s clear that there will be an app store, so as a
developer this will make things easier. I just hope these tablets will include
an active digitizer and be priced competitively.