Windows 8 Sales Off to a Slow Start, Microsoft Points Finger at PC Makers

Which finger?

.....while with their other hand, they give their loyal user-base the finger.

I'm seriously gonna learn to use Linux for everything I need a PC for, because I have some bad feelings about Microsoft's future. In another economy, maybe; in this one, no. Not saying they'll go under, but I think they'll hurt, which leads to more supremely stupid and desperate moves and ideas. Also, it could result in less support for older OS versions.

Or...perhaps Microsoft will take note, repent, and blossom again. It doesn't seem to really be in their character though, and it sure wouldn't fit their current trend of copying Apple.

Companies like Valve are really helping me to look seriously at Linux as a full-time OS. If it wouldn't be for games, I could probably already be using it full time.

I'm pretty sure the user interface is the thing to blame. Every one i have met hates windows 8 the first time they use it and i now just tell people at first when you install windows 8 you will hate it. However, i love windows 8 now that i have gotten used to it.

I was reading all the hate about the UI, I installed it at home and after showing my wife she wanted it on her computer. When I told my friend when you install it you may hate it at first because its new, he came back to me after he installed it and said he loved it. When i show people at work windows 8 they are impressed with it.

If you want the old window 7 feel just go to desktop, if you want the start button install the many apps around for it. I for one dont use it. Im happy with windows 8 and RT just wanting to get a phone right now.

I think the big negativity was from rumors about it being a closed system. Its not, I can install any and everything i have from games to applications. There is a learning curve but its not a hard one, its just new.

I think the problem with it is the OS has a pretty big learning curve and some big changes in familiarity... both are things that STRONGLY deter average tech and computer users. Apple's formula for simplicity and ease of use it what has made it so popular and successful and Microsoft could've learned a thing or two from that principle

Not to mention Windows 8 is optimized and designed for a touch interface, which a VAST majority of PC users still don't have, and probably won't for a while since touchscreen use for desktops and laptops doesn't seem to be too popular (and again implements a learning curve deterrent), an if they were to upgrade to a touch screen monitor, all in one, or laptop that would be a large expense for a sort of gimmicky feature that doesn't change much

Though Windows 8 has been in the pipeline for some time now, I truly feel that , despite the increasing number of ads, the average consumer doesn't really see "Windows" as a platform for phones and tablets. I don't watch a lot of TV, but I'm still seeing a lot more ads for Android and iPhone/iPad than I am for Windows Phone 8/ Windows RT devices. The other platforms have simply had such a great lead in terms of awareness that Microsoft would've been wise to have anticipated and have forecast slow adoption for the OS and devices. Then they could've boldly announced now that sales are progressing as expected, or even better. As it stands (for the short term), the slower-than-anticipated sales are putting an increased negative on the OS, which will further stall sales.

I imagine that when they are able to cross the awareness gap, perhaps through increased advertising but mostly through slow yet steady exposure by early adopters showing off the OS, the numbers will start to move in the direction Microsoft had hoped for. However, probably not until the 2nd half of next year.