Another PC Maker Betrays Microsoft

Even the few remaining optimists who believe the PC isn't dead have to admit the old boy is breathing heavy. Another Asian manufacturer, Asus, recently inked a deal with Google to manufacture a Chromebook later this year.

Chromebooks haven't caught on as fast as Google would like. But then again, neither has Microsoft's Windows 8 operating system, says Tim Beyers of Motley Fool Rule Breakers and Motley Fool Supernova in the following video. At least one PC manufacturer, Acer, said Chromebooks accounted for between 5% and 10% of Q4 sales and that, as a product category, Windows 8 machines were "not successful" as of January.

Industry trends aren't the only factor here. According to trade magazine Computerworld, Asus saw a fivefold increase in Android tablet shipments in the first quarter. Only the clinically unconscious wouldn't make a move to build more devices for Google's zero-cost operating systems after seeing numbers like that.

Do you agree? Please watch the video to get Tim's full take, and then let us know if you've tried using a Chromebook, and if so, what you thought of it.

Mr. Softy's hard times
It's been a frustrating path for Microsoft investors, who've watched the company fail to capitalize on the incredible growth in mobile over the past decade. However, with the release of its own tablet, along with the widely anticipated Windows 8 operating system, the company is looking to make a splash in this booming market. In a new premium report on Microsoft, a Motley Fool analyst explains that while the opportunity is huge, so are the challenges. The report includes regular updates as key events occur, so make sure to claim a copy of this report now by clicking here.

The article Another PC Maker Betrays Microsoft originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Tim Beyers is a member of the Motley Fool Rule Breakers stock-picking team and the Motley Fool Supernova Odyssey I mission. He owned shares of Google at the time of publication. Check out Tim's web home and portfolio holdings or connect with him on Google+, Tumblr, or Twitter, where he goes by @milehighfool. You can also get his insights delivered directly to your RSS reader.The Motley Fool recommends Google. The Motley Fool owns shares of Google and Microsoft. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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