Is there a rabbit in the hat, Apple?

We’re not a big fan of the changes in Windows 8 for the desktop since we’ve calculated measurable retraining for limited increase in value. We are however pleased to see Microsoft making a real attempt at iOS and Android. Everyone has missteps but we’ll overlook Windows CE just as we’ll ignore the dismal failure of the Apple Newton and give Microsoft credit for an honest run at the mobile world. Which makes us anxious to see next version of the market leader iPhone. A new look to iOS is a nice change (it was getting dusty) but I’m hoping for real innovation rather than minor evolution. Apple fanboys will stand in line for weeks then gush on about changes that amount to little more that adjusting the radius of the edge of the device or screen resolution. But is the shine wearing off now that real competition is here? A completely nonscientific assessment, consisting of a few of the kids in the neighborhood, found a lack of allegiance for Apple products, with Android a reasonable alternative and Microsoft “cool looking.” If Microsoft can successfully promote the seamless integration with the desktop this is shaping up to be a good fight.