Microsoft Redefines ''PC'' to be ''Personalized Computing''
If you are pessimistic, you could interpret news coming out of Germany that Microsoft just buried the PC. Sort of.
Most of us have grown up knowing that "PC" stands for "personal computer", a phrase that dates back to computers that were once envisioned and built by IBM, but was ultimately used for any computer purchased for the home environment. For example, we also referred to our Commodore 64 and Amstrad CPC as "personal computers", even if that was not entirely correct.
Now it seems as if there is a need to redefine what the term PC really means.
That need arises from the discussion that the PC model as we know it is dying, and the fact that even Microsoft is talking about a "PC Plus era." The company's own Peter Jaeger, Senior Director DPE (Developer and Platform Evangelism) and a key executive of Microsoft Germany, told an audience at the IFA 2012 tradeshow that "PC" now stands for "personalized computing."
The idea behind the new definition is that only Microsoft has a platform for all types of computing devices, and is the only company that is able to deliver a cohesive computing experience. It may require some imagination and some time getting used to, but consumers should now consider the PC not as an actual device, but as an activity that can be tailored to your needs on any computing device.
According to heise.de, Jaeger noted that Microsoft is investing about $9.5 billion into research every year and has the necessary resources to "create the future."
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Wolfgang Gruener is an experienced professional in digital strategy and content, specializing in web strategy, content architecture, user experience, and applying AI in content operations within the insurtech industry. His previous roles include Director, Digital Strategy and Content Experience at American Eagle, Managing Editor at TG Daily, and contributing to publications like Tom's Guide and Tom's Hardware.