TAIWAN: Microsoft officially launches Windows 8 in Taipei as part of its global launch event.

Record ID: 864095

  • Title: TAIWAN: Microsoft officially launches Windows 8 in Taipei as part of its global launch event.
  • Date: 26th October 2012
  • Summary: TAIPEI, TAIWAN (OCTOBER 26, 2012) (REUTERS) MICROSOFT AND CO-OPERATING COMPANIES OFFICIALS STANDING ON STAGE MICROSOFT TAIWAN GENERAL MANAGER DAVIS TSAI AND OTHER COMPANY REPRESENTATIVES CUTTING RIBBON COMPANY OFFICIALS OFFICIALS ON STAGE OFFICIALS GESTURING THE NUMBER 8 TSAI WALKING UP THE STAGE
  • Embargoed: 10th November 2012 12:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Taiwan, Province of China
  • City:
  • Country: Taiwan
  • Topics: Communications,Technology
  • Reuters ID: LVAESY6V3ON6Z8F8T091PA85479R
  • Aspect Ratio:
  • Story Text: Microsoft Corp launched Windows 8 in Taipei on Friday (October 26), showcasing mobile devices by local tablet PC makers in the battle against Apple in the expanding demand for intuitive computing experience.
    With interest in traditional computers waning, the world's largest software company is attempting to reinvent the Windows PC in a new format and directly challenge Apple's all-conquering iPad.
    Cutting a ribbon at the Windows 8 launch news conference, Microsoft Taiwan General Manager Davis Tsai said the new system offered users a brand new experience.

    "Windows 8 will redefine the user experience. I personally think this is the most important message in the Windows 8 launch -- redefine the user experience. We don't have to learn from others, this is a brand new paradigm shift," he said.
    Microsoft's own Surface tablet has not been made available to Taiwan in the initial launch which only includes eight markets -- China, Hong Kong, Macau, Canada, France, Germany, U.K. and the U.S., said the company's Public Relations representative.
    At the Guang Hua Digital Plaza, Taipei's largest computer market, 34-year-old teacher Chen Li-hsing said a Windows 8 compatible device may suit his needs.

    "I want the touch function to be smooth, so I won't need to click on the windows to choose what we want to see, this way I can access what I want immediately without mouse clicks," he said.
    I.T. industry worker, 40-year-old Vincent Wang, thought it would still be difficult for Microsoft to win over Apple lovers.

    "I believe there is a certain market, but it's a tough battle against Apple. I think it will take over some of the market share but not so fast because Apple fans have many years of deeply rooted habit, they are impossible to change right away," he said.
    A list of 37 locally developed were are presented at the launch, ranging from online shopping and banking, to investment and fashion guides.
    Windows 7 was introduced three years ago, but Windows 8 represents the biggest change in Microsoft's user interface since Windows 95 came out 17 years ago.
    Initial demand for Windows 8 appeared solid, but customers are wary of spending money on unnecessary technology in a tight economy.
  • Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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