Monday, January 11, 2010 by Adrian

The CES (Consumer Electronics Show) was yesterday treated to HP and Microsoft's team launch of their slate computer - tablet. Yet while some were ready to sing its praises, the majority of the industry insiders, press and bloggers present found the slate's launch to be nothing revelatory, and many took the chance to speculate on the arrival and outcome of the Apple counterpart.

Microsoft boss Steve Bullmer demonstrated the "almost as portable as a phone, and as powerful as a PC running Windows 7" device to a 3500 strong audience. He also mentioned the other tablets currently on the market by Archos and Pegatron, putting in context Microsoft and HP's response to a demand for the product.

Audience response was mixed, but what resounded over all was a seeming lack of reaction. Technology enthusiasts were quick to rejoice at the as yet unnamed slate's Windows 7 credentials, but some felt Microsoft had not gone far enough in their software developments, and saw the offering as standard. Many who had hoped to be blown away by the slate were left wondering whether this product had been worth the wait, considering the perceived lack of innovation. This has made the wait for Apple's offering, which according to the Wall Street Journal may be toward the end of this month, all the more eagerly anticipated and talked about.

Until Apple's product is launched, the feeling at the CES is that the puzzle is incomplete and that over-all interest in these rich text reader devices is still in the air. While some analysts are already concerned that device-weary consumers may not take to the slates, major speculation focuses on whether or not the islate will redefine the category, or give the boost to the middling market as predicted by analysts such as David Daoud of IDC is predicting. The waiting game continues. However with the inclusion of Windows 7, boasting the fastest selling operating system in history, Microsoft's Bullmer and HP's chief technology computer division officer Phil McKinney, are confident that 2010 is the right time for their slate.

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