reality BYTES
Like many journalists, I am sometimes critical of large software companies. Microsoft is a particularly easy target, as its general product portfolio and business culture sometimes leaves a lot to be desired.
However, it is only fair to give credit where credit is due: Windows 7 is a much improved PC experience compared to anything Microsoft has put out before. Its biggest asset? Getting out of your way as you try to go about your business.
Those who have suffered with Vista over the past three years will testify to the irritation of window after window of warnings, clarifications and doublechecks that summarised Vista’s nannying nature.
With Windows 7, almost all of that is gone. Instead, when you turn the computer on, all you see is a blank computer screen with whatever icons you left out for yourself to work off.
Because it’s a smaller and nimbler operating system, it has several practical advantages over its predecessor. First, it can run on low-powered netbooks with ease. This is a crucial function, as growth in netbook sales is outpacing full-sized laptops.
Second, it also contributes to making the operating system quicker. On the laptop I have been using Windows 7 on (a mid-level Dell), it takes 12 seconds to start up from a cold, ‘off’ position. (With Vista, it took over 30 seconds.)
Finally, it actually contributes to longer battery life, as the computer’s processors and hardware don’t have to work as hard to get the operating system to do basic things.
Part of Windows 7’s progress lies in the sensible decision that Microsoft has taken to leave many ‘social’ features out. For example, Vista tried to make great play of its Movie Maker video editing program. But this was always a poor substitute for far superior rival products, such as Apple’s iMovie.
Rather than chase a lost cause in this regard, Microsoft just moved on bravely, admitting there are some things at which it does not excel. This, and other similar application ditching decisions, have made the operating system lighter, more dynamic and better able to concentrate on things that we really want from an operating system.
These things include stability, compatibility and quick access to the internet.
In a sense, Microsoft has stepped back from wanting to be your best friend, constantly trying to get involved with your photos, music and videos. Instead, it is now your agreeable business partner, sometimes involved, sometimes silent. That is probably the precise relationship most people want from Windows.
The only quibble about the product is pricing. At €120 for the cheapest upgrade, this is a hard sell, even with the improvements made.
Don’t forget you can get a brand new laptop, with Windows 7 loaded free, for €350. But, for once, let us celebrate Microsoft’s pragmatism and common sense. It has provided us with an operating system to which we can return with enthusiasm.
