Microsoft Windows 8: 10 Reasons It Will Shatter Windows 7

Microsoft’s Windows 8 likely won’t be available until next year, but based on what’s known so far, the operating system could very well be better than Windows 7.

When it comes to operating systems, there’s no more 

 important company than Microsoft. For years now, the software giant has been dominating the OS landscape around the world. And with nearly every release of its operating system, it has been able to improve upon its preceding launches. If nothing else, Microsoft understands the operating system space, and knows how to be successful in that market.

Microsoft unveiling ARM-powered Windows OS

Microsoft products currently run exclusively on Intel chips, but according to a Bloomberg report, that could soon change. Sources have said that the software giant is developing a Windows operating system that would run on ARM's chip architecture. The new OS will supposedly be unveiled at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in January.

The rumored low-power operating system would be targeted toward tablets and smartphones, Bloomberg said. If the rumors are true, this would be a dramatic shift for Microsoft, considering the company's longstanding relationship with Intel.

The move makes business sense, however, considering the explosive growth in the use of mobile devices in recent years. A low-power OS based on ARM's blueprint would open up new markets for Microsoft. More companies would be able to run Windows on their hardware, as ARM powers a majority of tablets and mobile devices. Intel's chips, on the other hand, require a lot more power, so aren't as suited for battery-powered devices.

While it could be a gain for both Microsoft and ARM, this report doesn't bode well for Intel. Currently almost all PCs and laptops use Intel's x86 chip product line. Computer manufacturers, though, would have more opportunities, since they would be free to build ARM-based products capable of running Windows.