Windows 8 is going to be the first attempt by Microsoft to launch its long-running desktop operating system on tablets and ARM-based devices. However, Michael Dell warned the cost of the touch-enabled devices running Windows 8 will be more expensive than non-touch counterparts.
The comments came alongside news that Dell will be offering a range of Windows 8 products, probably including touch devices. Michael Dell said at the company's quarterly earnings call that the devices will be more expensive, in turn meaning potentially higher profits for Dell.
"Unlike other Windows transitions, this is a transition where you are going to need a new PC," Dell said. That's despite the Windows 8 system requirements appearing relatively low, including a 1GHz processor and a minimum 16GB and 20GB of storage for the 32- and 64-bit versions of Windows 8 respectively.
Dell added the upgrade process for enterprise will differ to previous versions, saying corporations are still adopting Windows 7 which launched October 2009. The CEO added the day-one upgrades to Windows 8 will be slow, and was skeptical of buyer's enthusiasm for Windows 8 tablets over computers.
"The computer maker is trying to reduce its dependence on sales of consumer PCs, where profit margins are lower, and is trying to sell more higher-priced systems, such as its XPS PCs," Computerworld reported on May 22. Dell's desktop revenue has declined by one percent.
Conversely to Dell's comments on the potential slow rate of adoption for touch devices running Windows 8, its PC business was outperformed by tablets and smartphones. Dell only sells enterprise tablets, though in the past it has launched devices such as the five-inch Dell Streak tablet.
Microsoft is expected to launch Windows 8 later this year, possibly around October. The Release Preview of the OS launches during the first week of June - no specific date has been given - which provides the next major look at the OS.
The company is looking to create an integrated ecosystem, similar to Apple's user experiences across its platforms. The company confirmed Windows RT will run on the ARM-based devices, though will keep the desktop half of the OS alongside the Metro UI.
