The battle between Microsoft and Apple is heating up once more as each prepares to launch its own new range of mobile devices and operating systems. With Windows 8 presented to the global media as the all in one solution for desktop and portable computing, Microsoft is setting out its stall as an all-powerful provider of software, while Apple is sticking to its guns with reports of the iPhone 5G and the new iOS 5 operating system.
Windows 8 is going to revolve heavily around a touch-friendly interface which borrows the tiled look of Windows Phone 7. Of course the original desktop look is carried over from Windows products of the past, but this is only a single facet of the visual presentation and instead the firm is looking to make the experience totally scalable and consistent. This means whether you pick up a Windows 8 tablet, smartphone, laptop or desktop computer you will be able to access similar features across the board and know how to use them instantly.
Microsoft`s approach to multitasking with Windows 8 is also shifting, with its touch interface allowing users to snap multiple windows around the display area, giving greater room for whichever they are using at the time and then allowing quick switching so that the size of the screen is never a hindrance to operation.
Apple`s iPhone 5G is not yet announced but various hints, leaks and rumours surrounding the device have kept people very excited. Delays to production caused by the Japanese earthquake earlier in the year have delayed its expected launch until the autumn, but at the WWDC event it was down to Apple to drum up interest in its new cloud-based services which could well allow the iPhone 5G to ditch wires altogether.
Speculation about the hardware and physical properties of the next iPhone has been ongoing, but most are convinced it will sport a version of the dual core A5 processor currently found in the iPad 2 tablet. A larger four inch display has been touted, as have changes to the glass-backed design of the iPhone 4, but it seems likely that Apple will retain the general look and feel for the next iteration, perhaps subtitling it the iPhone 4S to indicate its incremental advancements.
One thing that seems certain about the fifth iPhone is that updating and maintaining it will be easier than ever. Apple has promised to make over the air software updates available so that there is no need to download the software to your PC and connect it via a cable. In addition activation of iPhones no longer requires an iTunes account, so you can forget the fussy processes of the past and focus on how the Apple iPhone handles in the future. Instant messaging revamped notifications and integration for Twitter all follow from iOS 5`s announcement, so the future looks exciting for the next smartphone in this continually lauded range.
