Microsoft Origami - Reality vs. Hype | Part II

On March 9th, Microsoft and Intel let the cat out of the bag. We all final got to see the initial Origami devices. They looked pretty much the way I called it. I've seen some video and at least based on that, was not ,overly impressed. The featured device on the UMPC page actually appeared kind of flimsy.

Several things to note, related to digital culture issues. Microsoft did some checking and found that supposedly "soccer-moms" loved the device. We'll see if that's just more hype or true. Remember, since this is an so-called "ultra-Mobile" computing device, i wonder how the screen will look outside. That can be very though. Another item featured that has some posibilities is built in GPS navigation. Until you start using GPS, it can be hard to conceptualize how valuable it really is. I use it all the time and initially was stunned to find out how often I used it and how liberating it was to have. This could be a killer app for UMPC, but we will have to see.

Early adopters will be paying 1000.00 (US). Mass market buyers are expected to pick up on the UMPC devices in approximately a year, with the price dropping to about 500.00. We'll watch and see how this one goes.

// Jaye Morris, Technologist

Microsoft Origami - Reality vs. Hype

There has been considerable buzz around the web lately regarding Microsoft’s Origami. There have been (probably false) assumptions (or hopes) that Microsoft would create some sort of Uber device that would effectively compete with the Apple iPod. The reason why I say hope is that most people think that Microsoft’s pockets are so deep that they could spend the money and time to create a rather amazing device [in a short period of time] that could easily catch-up to the effectiveness, coolness and hip-ness of the iPod. The feeling tends to be that unless Microsoft creates this so-called super device, there is probably no hope of over-throwing the iPod. It’s about financing, brand, distribution, channels and vision (not in that order).

My current guess is that people will be extremely disappointed. Why you might ask? Easy. People are currently looking and speculating about an iconic device that is in the realm of the Apple iPod. What it appears that world will be actually getting is a new Microsoft operating system focused around the idea of “Ultra Mobile Personal Computing”. That means that all the usual suspects (Toshiba, Sony, HP, Dell, etc…) will have UMPC devices out there. That translates into just more clutter [and noise], nothing actually distinctive as having that iconic device like the aforementioned Apple iPod. Before it’s all said and done, we will look back and see it as a squandered opportunity for Microsoft to do something that’s cool and unique. People aren’t looking for more Baskin-Robbins 51 Flavors. We are looking for that special “one-and-only” singular device. We are looking for something outside the echo chamber that will truly change our paradigm. It’s much like having that special car or outfit that only a few can own or possess. When it comes to cool, people are not looking for sameness. That’s part of the reason why cool is cool, in the first place.

Take a look at what we’ve seen so far:
Concept Video courtsey of Google Video
Microsoft Origami (Week 1)
Microsoft Origami (Week 2)
Intel (Ultra Mobile Computing)

The reason why I place the links in this particular order is to show you what appears to be a devolution. They are now engaged in moving (some might say pushing) people from the idea of a “Microsoft Uber Device” to the new “Ultra Mobile PC” operating system. Will Origami change your life as Microsoft assets and the Apple iPod has? I offer a resounding NO! Professionally and personally, I’m not looking for another tablet PC. How about you? What we’ve been told holds true. Don’t believe the hype.

// Jaye Morris, Technologist