If you thought that Microsoft’s move to multi-platform apps and cloud computing was hype, think again. The latest filing with the US Securities commission has a notable change in Microsoft’s policy.
For a long, long time, Windows has been the core of Microsoft’s strategy. There’s been support for other operating systems but getting people onto Windows was the main focus. Office for Windows is the full-featured suite with other versions (Mac, Android) secondary.
The formal corporate filings said that for many years:
“Windows 10 is the cornerstone of our ambition, providing a foundation for the secure, modern workplace …”
Geekwire noticed that phrase and the key ‘cornerstone’ word isn’t in the latest filing. Windows is still important but not the focus.
“… we are bringing Office, Windows, and devices together for an enhanced and more cohesive customer experience.”
None of this makes an immediate difference to the development of Microsoft Office. Office and especially Office 365 will continue to be a multi-platform set of programs. Office for Windows will continue to be ‘top of the heap’ in terms of features.
Getting more money from Windows 10
If the free upgrade to Windows 10 seemed too good to be true, that was right.
“Our ambition for Windows 10 monetization opportunities includes gaming, services, subscriptions, and search advertising.”
Office & Cloud up – Windows flat
Looking at Microsoft’s financial results shows why that’s happening.
Windows revenue has flattened out, just reaching a ‘measly’ $20 billion in 2019 Q2.
Office, Server and cloud services continue their rise bringing in combined revenue over $60 billion.
Compare Documents
Geekwire’s comparison of Microsoft filings is done using Word’s Compare Documents feature.
The Form 10-K filings are public documents available online in various formats including HTML and RTF which can be imported into Word then compared to easily see changes in wording.
