I was given the honor of running several Microsoft booths at CES and enjoyed every minute of it with the chance to geek out with so many people in a short period of time. I had first started operating one booth then bouncing around between 4 in the vicinity showing off the abilities of Windows Vista, Windows Media Player 11 and Extenders. What really took me by surprise was the amount of Apple users that came over to “check out ” Windows Vista and Windows Media Player 11 drawing several compliments and noticing many similarities between Apple’s OSX and iTunes. They really like the new enhancements, new UI, and features - but still loved their Macs. However many said they would love to be able to use digital ink on a Mac like the Tablet PCs and UMPC/Origami Devices, but it wasn’t enough to make them switch. I think they were holding out for an Apple branded Tablet. When I asked them if you had to purchase one now that met your needs what would you most likely purchase and surprisingly they chose the Tablet PC. When I asked which one 3 said the Toshiba R100, 2 said the TX1000 from HP and 1 said the new OQO. These were primed questions, but an informal poll that I asked some of the Mac Users that came through the few hours I operated the booth. Another 6 Apple computer users said they would just wait for the next Powerbook. Again I was amazed at the number of Apple users that stopped by, more inquisitive to see if they made the right choice or just to see what else was out there. So as many people think Apple users are diehard fanatics there are also others that make well thought out choices as to what best meets their needs.
Others mostly wanted to experience touch ,feel, and experience the new Windows Operating system and many were eager to get their hands on it. Many looked like kids at Christmas with dreams of what they would/could be doing with it once they get it.
Written by Steven Hughes - Visit Website
