Why has the launch of Microsoft Windows 10 created so much hype?
Key takeaways from Microsoft Windows 10 release announcement (Part 2 of 10)
Microsoft rules the operating system market
According to Dazeinfo, Microsoft (MSFT), with all its operating systems (or OS) such as 7, 8, 8.1, XP, and Vista, rules the operating system space. It’s followed by Apple’s MAC OS X that commands 7.4% of the market share. Thus, any announcement regarding Microsoft’s latest operating system is bound to create an uproar in the market.
According to Gartner, in 2013, Google’s (GOOG) (GOOGL) Android commanded 36% market share in the overall device market, which includes PCs (personal computers), smartphones, and tablets. It’s followed by Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s (AAPL) iOS that commanded 15% and 12% market share, respectively. In the first week of October 2014, Microsoft announced the launch of Windows 10.
If Microsoft Windows 10 is successful, it will not only benefit its investors but also ETFs such as the Powershares QQQ Trust (QQQ) and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK), which have 8.28% and 9.61% exposure to Microsoft, respectively.
Windows is a significant revenue generator for Microsoft
In fiscal year 2014, ended June 30, 2014, Microsoft’s PC operating system accounted for about 19% of Microsoft’s revenue and generated roughly 30% of the company’s earnings. It’s little wonder that Windows’ significant role in revenue generation makes every new version, including the latest Windows 10, a high-stake venture.
It becomes much more potent as sales of Microsoft Office are closely tied to sales of Windows devices. According to Jefferies & Company, the combined revenue related to Windows and PC versions of Microsoft Office accounts for approximately 80% of Microsoft’s operating profit.
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