Of course, Microsoft followed a similar strategy a couple years ago when it . Despite the word of mouth marketing and excitement that should've been generated among Microsoft family and friends, the Windows Phone platform has still been struggling to earn a seat at the table with other mobile platforms like iOS and Android.

Microsoft is putting its money on the line in other ways as well, though. Previous versions of Windows have cost consumers hundreds of dollars to upgrade, but with Windows 8 Microsoft is offering the for a limited time. There's also a rumor that Microsoft could price its --a very aggressive price for a tablet of that caliber, and something, which is sure to draw attention if it proves true.

Microsoft isn't just developing incremental tweaks to existing product lines. The operating systems, platforms, software and devices Microsoft is unleashing this year represent a bold departure from traditional Microsoft products and strategies. Much of what Microsoft is doing is essentially a gamble--but it's a gamble that Microsoft is going all in on.

We'll see if the strategy pays off.