In a recent interview with Microsoft’s Windows and Devices chief, Pavan Davuluri, insights into the future of the flagship operating system were unveiled. The conversation, conducted by the Windows IT Pro channel, touched on the integration of voice, touch, and pen control, all part of a broader vision for a multimodal computing experience. This evolution is set to introduce a range of AI features that aim to redefine user interaction with technology.
Multimodal Future
Davuluri envisions a computing landscape where interaction becomes more ambient and pervasive, transcending traditional form factors. “I think we will see computing become more ambient, more pervasive, continue to span form factors, and certainly become more multimodal in the arc of time,” he stated. This perspective echoes a familiar sentiment, reminiscent of the ambitious yet controversial launch of Windows 8, which introduced a touch-optimized interface that was met with mixed reviews from users.
Reflecting on the past, it is clear that the lessons learned from Windows 8 have not been forgotten, although some critics argue that the same hubris may linger within the company. The previous iteration’s focus on a touch-first experience was driven by a desire to adapt to the emerging tablet market, yet it often overlooked the practical needs of its user base.
Balancing Innovation with User Needs
As Microsoft pivots towards integrating advanced AI capabilities, questions arise about whether users truly desire to control their PCs through touch and voice commands, especially in collaborative environments. Many may prefer that the substantial investments touted by Davuluri be directed toward addressing existing shortcomings and bugs within the operating system, rather than layering on additional features that may not align with user preferences.
Critics suggest that a renewed focus on Quality Assurance could be a more prudent use of resources. The experience with Windows 8 serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of understanding user needs and maintaining a balance between innovation and functionality.
AI Ambitions and User Experience
During the interview, Davuluri elaborated on Microsoft’s ambitions for AI within the operating system, although the absence of discussions around “Quality” and “Testing” raised eyebrows. A glimpse of the forthcoming changes can be seen in Windows Settings, where users can articulate their intentions, prompting the OS to respond accordingly. However, this raises concerns about reliability and user experience.
In a lighter moment, when asked about his favorite emoji, Davuluri humorously referenced “our little rocket that’s going up and to the right,” a nod to the aspirations of delivering exceptional features. The host’s quip about the joy of shipping great features highlights the ongoing journey of innovation at Microsoft, even as the company navigates the complexities of user satisfaction and technological advancement.
Oh dear. Windows boss says Microsoft is again reshaping OS
In a recent interview with Microsoft’s Windows and Devices chief, Pavan Davuluri, insights into the future of the flagship operating system were unveiled. The conversation, conducted by the Windows IT Pro channel, touched on the integration of voice, touch, and pen control, all part of a broader vision for a multimodal computing experience. This evolution is set to introduce a range of AI features that aim to redefine user interaction with technology.
Multimodal Future
Davuluri envisions a computing landscape where interaction becomes more ambient and pervasive, transcending traditional form factors. “I think we will see computing become more ambient, more pervasive, continue to span form factors, and certainly become more multimodal in the arc of time,” he stated. This perspective echoes a familiar sentiment, reminiscent of the ambitious yet controversial launch of Windows 8, which introduced a touch-optimized interface that was met with mixed reviews from users.
Reflecting on the past, it is clear that the lessons learned from Windows 8 have not been forgotten, although some critics argue that the same hubris may linger within the company. The previous iteration’s focus on a touch-first experience was driven by a desire to adapt to the emerging tablet market, yet it often overlooked the practical needs of its user base.
Balancing Innovation with User Needs
As Microsoft pivots towards integrating advanced AI capabilities, questions arise about whether users truly desire to control their PCs through touch and voice commands, especially in collaborative environments. Many may prefer that the substantial investments touted by Davuluri be directed toward addressing existing shortcomings and bugs within the operating system, rather than layering on additional features that may not align with user preferences.
Critics suggest that a renewed focus on Quality Assurance could be a more prudent use of resources. The experience with Windows 8 serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of understanding user needs and maintaining a balance between innovation and functionality.
AI Ambitions and User Experience
During the interview, Davuluri elaborated on Microsoft’s ambitions for AI within the operating system, although the absence of discussions around “Quality” and “Testing” raised eyebrows. A glimpse of the forthcoming changes can be seen in Windows Settings, where users can articulate their intentions, prompting the OS to respond accordingly. However, this raises concerns about reliability and user experience.
In a lighter moment, when asked about his favorite emoji, Davuluri humorously referenced “our little rocket that’s going up and to the right,” a nod to the aspirations of delivering exceptional features. The host’s quip about the joy of shipping great features highlights the ongoing journey of innovation at Microsoft, even as the company navigates the complexities of user satisfaction and technological advancement.