"We decided to do x86 first and put more effort into understanding customer needs," he said.

With the introduction of Windows 8, Microsoft is breaking with the past and launching its own tablet computer rather than exclusively relying on companies like Acer to put hardware into the market.

Wong said he had some concerns about Microsoft competing with its partners, but that they still shared a lot in common.

"We are in the same boat," Wong said. "We are competing with Apple, we are one team."

The IDG News Service