Desktop operating system Future trends: completely FREE

The popularity of smartphones and tablets not only affects the hardware of traditional computers, but also brings some impact on the desktop system. One of the biggest changes is that desktop systems are starting to get free. For the user, the cheaper operating system is naturally better than the expensive one;

Upgrade data show free systems more popular

The data illustrate everything. In the last month, the OS X Mavericks system has accounted for 59% of the market share of Mac computers. Obviously, Os X, which was originally priced at a very low price, received more support from users after being completely free, making it more than twice times faster than the previous system. Frankly, even though Mavericks has no great evolution compared to Kings Lion, it still makes users feel "premium" for free.

Apple and Microsoft desktop operating system market share changes in the last 6 months

Similarly, free is also accelerating the development of Windows systems. Windows 8.1 has increased its market share to 40% per cent in 6 months since it was released for free, while the fee version of Windows 8 has less than 6 of its market share within 10% months. Of course, unlike Apple, only users with Windows 8 systems can upgrade to 8.1, but if 8.1 is not free, the results will be quite different.

Windows trends: Free version will be available

Although desktop systems will someday be as free as mobile systems, Microsoft may not do so for the time being. First, the Windows system still occupies most of Microsoft's sales revenue, and it is clear that this part of the revenue will not be abandoned until Microsoft succeeds in its transformation.

However, there are several signs that Microsoft may be adjusting its product structure, such as free and paid versions. According to foreign media The Verge, Microsoft is building the so-called "Windows 8.1 with Bing" free projects, binding Microsoft's various services, through software projects to achieve profitability. "Windows 8.1 with Bing" is also seen as a sign of Microsoft's entry into the low-end market, which will compete more fiercely with Android and Chromebook.

In addition, Microsoft has lowered the system licensing fee for some low-cost Windows 8.1 tablets, down by as much as 70%, which is expected to further reduce the price of Windows low-end devices. Meanwhile, reports show that Windows Phone 8.1 updates will also lower the threshold, allowing handset makers to produce more low-cost WP handsets.

So how does Microsoft fill the gap in the profitability of Windows? Obviously, it is through more equipment to promote their own services, including Bing (advertising), OneDrive and Skype (advanced user fees) and Office 365 (membership fee). On the other hand, we also see Microsoft's gradual production of hardware, including the surface series of tablets, which, like Apple, earns revenue from software and hardware sales.

Source: Computerworld

(Responsible editor: The good of the Legacy)