
Photo by Marcin WicharyThe Tablet PC Windows version, in Microsoft’s own words, is a Slate computer optimized for mobility and designed as a light weight and ergonomic device. Apart from the size and shape, the key difference between these tablets and an ordinary desktop is the input device which is a pen and touch screen instead of a keyboard and mouse. Let’s take a look under the hood and see what’s inside, and see what all the fuss is about.
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.
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.
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