Microsoft has launched an attempt to muscle in on the tablet computer market with the unveiling of a new operating system.
The technology giant’s Windows division president, Steven Sinofsky, presented the new Windows 8 platform at an event in California.
It represents Microsoft latest effort to make up ground on Apple, which has dominated the tablet market since the launch of the iPad.
Other tablets, such as those made by BlackBerry and Hewlett Packard, have trailed behind Apple in sales.
Microsoft’s mobile devices have also faced competition from the Android platform.
The company had previously shown off its work so far on the new operating system in a series of videos posted on YouTube.
The first preview claimed Windows 8 would work across desktops, laptops and touch-screen systems.
The new system is not expected to appear on any devices until next year.
James Holland, from website Electricpig.co.uk, said: “This is Microsoft’s big chance to take on Apple and Android in the battle of the tablets.
“(What Microsoft have developed) is kind of Windows 7 on steroids.”
Source : Sky News