Microsoft Hardware – Microsoft is the best when it comes to software but let’s not forget about the hardware they have created through the years as well. From smartphones, laptops, game consoles to video conferencing devices, this multinational technological company never fails to impress their loyal customers with their newest inventions.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of Microsoft Hardware
Microsoft was found in 1972, but the hardware division was only established ten years later. The first hardware developed by Microsoft Hardware is a computer mouse that was specially designed to be used with Microsoft Word and Notepad for DOS. It was released in 1983 and not only well-known for its capability but also for its curvy design, which was different from other computer mice at that time.
Some of the Most Popular Products from Microsoft Hardware
Now, Microsoft has developed plenty of hardware including various types of laptops, game consoles and controllers, smart glasses, biometric readers and even mobile phones. Some hardware is more popular than others. While Lumia, its mobile phone fell short on the market, some of Microsoft’s other products managed to take over the market and here are some of the most popular ones.
Microsoft Surface
The first Surface was introduced back in 2012, and it became Microsoft’s first step in integrating their software to their hardware. Surface immediately received positive reviews due to its unique shape and function.
It is also called hybrid tablet or detachable notebook since it can function both as a tablet as well as a PC when it is attached to the keyboard. As time goes by, more versions are released including all-in-one desktop and laptops. Some of them even come with drafting table function as well as a stylus pen.
Even though the overall responses from the public are positive, the first-generation Surface performed poorly in the market. Microsoft had made a loss of almost $1 million due to poor sales.
However, things started to go in the right direction since Surface 3 was launched in the second quarter of 2015. As it gained more recognition from the public, Microsoft is getting ready to launch a 13.5” Surface laptop that is claimed to rival Apple. Furthermore, Surface Pro 6 tablet is also ready to hit the market, bringing some revisions over the previous model.
Microsoft Xbox
Xbox is Microsoft entry in the world of a gaming console. Since it was first launched back in 2001, Xbox has had a fierce competition against Sony’s uber-popular gaming console, the PlayStation.
Up to this time, Microsoft has launched three generations of Xbox—Xbox in 2001, Xbox 360 in 2005 and the latest one were Xbox One in 2013. One of the most significant improvements in the latest Xbox One is the media that can be played which now include CD, DVD, Blu-ray Discs, USB Drive and DLNA servers.
It is reported that Microsoft has prepared a new family member for the Xbox One. It is called Project Scorpio, at least for now, and it will be released sometime in 2017 holiday season.
