With Windows 10 and Chrome OS battling it out this year among laptop users, personal computer makers are expected to have significant gains.
PC shipments all over the world will reportedly fall by 3.3 per cent this year but may only decline by 1.8 per cent in 2016, thanks to Windows 10 and Chromebooks.
With the release of Windows 10, businesses and personal users are expected to have their PCs upgraded, particularly those who found Windows 8 perplexing and those who failed to update their previous operating system.
Windows 10 is reportedly capable of addressing the concerns that were raised about Windows 8. Moreover, its preview version garnered positive feedback, as claimed by IDC senior research analyst Jay Chou.
It has further been asserted by Chou that the upcoming OS will perform well among users in the United States, but it could still take some time to determine whether such individuals will immediately have their PCs upgraded.
The decision to upgrade to Windows 10 could also be affected by how Microsoft is planning to release the new operating system -- whether as a paid software or a free upgrade.
Both Lenovo and Dell have reportedly released endorsements for the upcoming OS, stating that their customers are already looking forward to upgrading to Windows 10 to have the Windows 8 replaced.
One of the most common issues is the absence of the Start menu, which will be returning to Windows 10, as well as an increased emphasis on the desktop.
“Microsoft has the home court advantage, with the installed base,” Chou explained. “If Microsoft can help PCs be price competitive, then there is this home-court advantage to maintain Windows share.”
While positive outcomes are expected for Microsoft following the release of Windows 10, competition from Chromebooks may continue to exist. Chromebooks may pose significant threat to Microsoft because if affordability and Google's Chrome OS.
In particular, Chromebooks have earned their way to the top laptop lists this past holiday season because these devices were deemed as favorable options for students and other consumers.
Microsoft aims to compete with Chrome OS by generating a line of low-cost laptop and desktop computers. Such devices come with minimal storage capacity and have been designed mainly for individuals whose main purpose is to surf the Web and save files online.
HP, for instance, has already sold Stream laptops that run on Windows with a starting price of less than $200.
Microsoft is still expected to reveal more information about the forthcoming Windows at a major event on Jan. 21 in Redmont, Washington.
