Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) CEO Steve Ballmer claims that 350 million Windows 7 enabled devices will ship this year. According to Bloomberg, Ballmer claims, “It makes Windows the most popular single system.” Compared to what, a skeptic might ask. Windows 7 is the past, and Windows 8, slated to be released this fall, is the future. Ballmer did not have as much to say about that.
Microsoft may ship tens and tens of millions of Windows 8 enabled devices, but Wall St.’s most significant concern is that very few of these will be mobile devices, the supposed future of operating systems as the demand for PCs falters.
Microsoft’s largest bet on mobile versions of Windows is its partnership with deeply wounded handset company Nokia (NYSE: NOK). Its new smartphones, part of its Lumia brand, have only sold modestly well, and continue to be swamped by sales of Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPhones and iPads, and a new generation of Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android-powered devices.Ballmer’s comments about Windows 7 don’t mean much.
Douglas A. McIntyre
Are You Ahead, or Behind on Retirement? (sponsor)
If you’re one of the over 4 Million Americans set to retire this year, you may want to pay attention.
Finding a financial advisor who puts your interest first can be the difference between a rich retirement and barely getting by, and today it’s easier than ever. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three fiduciary financial advisors that serve your area in minutes. Each advisor has been carefully vetted, and must act in your best interests. Start your search now.
Don’t waste another minute; get started right here and help your retirement dreams become a retirement reality.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
Our expert who first called NVIDIA in 2009 is predicting 2025 will see a historic AI breakthrough.
You can follow him investing $500,000 of his own money on our top AI stocks for free.