Ask Moire

End of the PC era?!?

September 6, 2013

Clarinda asks: Moire, they say that it is the end of the PC era. Do you agree?”

Moiré’s answer:  Hello Clarinda, and thank you for your question. I’m assuming by ‘PC’ you mean ‘Personal Computing’ rather than ‘Political Correctness’? I dare say we’ve left the age of being politically correct long ago, but that’s another column for another day. As far as this being the end of the age of personal computing there have been some recent articles and, perhaps, even a study or two about this very topic. Personally, I believe it is the way we do our personal computing that is changing, not the idea itself of personal computing.
If you look at consumer trends, it is clear to see that computing via mobile device is on the rise and that using the traditional desktop, and even laptop, are becoming less and less en vogue. This is what causes companies like Microsoft some trouble as we look down the road.

You see, Microsoft doesn’t have a real solid hold in the mobile (phone) platform marketplace. Sure, they have the Windows Phone, but have you seen anyone using one? I certainly haven’t. This is what has allowed companies like Apple to move so far ahead in the last 5-7 years. They not only offer operating systems that work beautifully on their more traditional laptop and desktop platforms, but to nearpurrrfection when it comes to computing via their mobile devices like the iPad and iPhone. (As a side note: The newest version of the iPhone may be released this month!)

So, indeed, Clarinda – the traditional idea of personal computing might be on the way out, but what is taking its place seems to be “personal computing any way you like it”. That trend, to this pussycat, feels like a warm ray of sunshine coming through a window pane on a cold autumn day. Until next time, remember that time changes everything, unless you work in politics.
Fondest Regards,

MOIRE