Microsoft aims to woo with Windows 7

• Source: Global Times
• [00:38 October 23 2009]
• Comments

Microsoft launched its Windows 7 operating system Thursday in its most important release for more than a decade, aiming to win back customers after the disappointing Vista and strengthen its grip on the PC market.

The world's largest software company, which powers more than 90 percent of personal computers, has received good reviews for Windows 7, which it hopes will grab back the impetus in new technology from rivals Apple and Google.

"Given the missteps around Vista, people really questioned Microsoft's relevancy in the technology space. So this is a critical first step for Microsoft regaining that credibility," analyst Brendan Barnicle of Pacific Crest Securities told Reuters.

The new system – which is faster, less cluttered and has new touch-screen features – comes almost three years after the launch of Vista, whose complexity frustrated many home users and business customers.

The success of Windows – which accounts for more than half of Microsoft's profit – is crucial for Chief Executive Steve Ballmer to revive the company's image as the world's most important software firm.

"I have to say I'm chomping at the bit," Ballmer told an audience of Microsoft customers and partners in Toronto on Wednesday.