Google, in collaboration with Qualcomm, is poised to disrupt the PC market with its ambitious plan to bring a unified Android platform to PCs. This move marks a significant challenge to Microsoft's long-held dominance in the PC operating system arena. At the Qualcomm Summit, Google's Rick Osterloh confirmed the development of a common technical foundation for Android across PCs and smartphones. This isn't a new idea; Google has hinted at Android's PC expansion for some time, aiming to provide a desktop-class OS rivaling Windows and macOS.
This initiative includes the full Android AI stack, along with the vast library of Android apps and its thriving developer community. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon views this project as fulfilling the vision of mobile and PC convergence, a goal Microsoft attempted (and ultimately abandoned) with Windows 10's Continuum and Windows Core OS. Now, Google seeks to capitalize on Microsoft's past failures.
The move parallels Apple's approach with iPadOS, which expands iOS capabilities for desktop-like functionality. Google leverages its established Chrome OS groundwork, relationships with PC manufacturers (HP, Dell, Lenovo), and its extensive Android app ecosystem to gain a strong foothold in this market. While Chrome OS hasn't achieved the widespread adoption Google hoped for, the potential of Android-powered PCs is undeniable, sending a clear warning signal to Microsoft.
Microsoft's Windows 11, built on legacy code, faces challenges in terms of bloat, performance, efficiency, and security. Its backward compatibility, while beneficial, hinders innovation and adaptability to modern form factors. This limitation restricts Windows' growth, resulting in a steady decline in market share, contrasting with Google and Apple's success in expanding their operating systems to diverse devices.
Historically, Apple and Google haven't directly targeted the PC market; however, that's changing rapidly. Apple Silicon revitalized the Mac, and iPadOS offers a viable laptop alternative. But it's Google's move that poses the most significant threat to Microsoft. Google's pre-existing partnerships with major PC manufacturers could give them a significant advantage. If Google offers a superior alternative—a leaner, faster OS with a massive app catalog—PC manufacturers are likely to be receptive.
For users primarily engaging in basic tasks like web browsing, office work, and media consumption, an Android PC could be an attractive option. If Android PCs gain traction, Microsoft may struggle to retain its user base. Years of perceived stagnation and unmet user expectations have eroded goodwill, leaving many open to switching to a more compelling alternative. To counter this threat, Microsoft must prioritize innovation, developing user-desired features and modernizing Windows to compete effectively. Whether Microsoft is willing to undertake this transformation remains to be seen.
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Originally published at: https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/google-is-building-the-android-pc-and-phone-convergence-platform-that-microsoft-failed-to-deliver-with-windows-qualcomm-calls-it-incredible
