Microsoft redefines the OS: Azure, Windows 7 explained

29.10.2008
Microsoft revealed a significant shift in its strategy Monday, introducing two new and drastically different Windows products at its annual . First, there is Microsoft's cloud-based Windows system, , which takes the focus away from the individual PC and has Microsoft customers relying more on Web services instead of desktop applications. Then, there is Vista's successor, , which serves as Microsoft's next operating system (OS) -- but without the bulk.

Azure is being billed by , or an OS that exists within a network framework. Developers will create services and applications based on the framework. Consumers will then use those applications in a hybrid desktop-online manner, similar to how Windows Live Services such as Windows Live Photo Gallery function now. For example, you can access and manage your photo library via either a Web browser or a Windows Live Photo Gallery - blurring the line between Web service and desktop application.

Then there is , slated for release in 2010. It presents users with a leaner OS, pushing consumers to rely more on Windows Live Services such as Windows Mail or Movie Maker. Gone will be the plethora of built-in software applications, with programs instead being downloaded a' la carte as desired.

Windows 7 and Azure Herald Web-Centric Era

As Microsoft works to move into the more network-driven world of modern computing, the two new approaches raise questions over the future of the operating system. Are the days of the heavy duty, client-centric OS coming to an end?

Both Azure and Windows 7 bring users more to Microsoft's data centers and less to their own hard drives, though to varying degrees. The transition is not a surprising one, as competitors such as Google continue to make headway in the network-based business model. (.)