Computer and Library Learning (Archived)

Web analytics company Net Applications released their latest statistics on desktop computer operating systems usage that showed Windows XP with the largest share of the market, though only with a plurality of 46.52% in December 2011, down from 57.51% in February 2011. By contrast, the newer Windows 7 operating system increased market share to 36.99% in December 2011 from 24.09%, while Windows Vista declined from 11.49% to 8.44%. Mac OS X 10.7 increased from 0% to 2.02% while Mac OS X 10.6 declined from 3.55% to 3.05%. Other operating systems as a group declined from 3.36% to 2.98%.

The context for the major shift between Windows XP and Windows 7 can be explained by several factors: the age of Windows XP (10 years and counting); Microsoft encouraging Windows users to give up on XP for a more up-to-date operating system before Microsoft ends its support of Windows XP in April 2014; and, XP’s inability to run with web browser Microsoft Internet Explorer 9. Obviously, computer users have been paying attention to what Microsoft has been saying about XP.

Another development to consider will be the widespread release of Windows 8 later this year following pending beta testing. Windows 8 will include the ribbon user interface that has become standard in Microsoft Office products. Windows 8 is likely to be partnered up with Internet Explorer 10, be available in bootable format on a transferable USB flash drive, and able to run on desktops, laptops, and tablets.

(See also: Windows 7 Gaining Operating System Market Share )