Acer CEO JT Wang said that Microsoft needs to think twice about launching its Surface tablet because it'll rattle the ecosystem and partners could become rivals.
In an interview in the Financial Times, Wang said:
We have said [to Microsoft] think it over. Think twice. It will create a huge negative impact for the ecosystem and other brands may take a negative reaction. It is not something you are good at so please think twice.
The comments made me chuckle on a few counts. To wit:
- First, Microsoft wouldn't have cooked up the Surface if partners were pushing the design envelope. Let's face it, the PC industry's idea of design is to see what Apple cooks up and then copy it.
- Second, Acer is largely stuck with Microsoft at least for laptops and PCs. In other words, Acer can whine, but has little leverage for anything else.
- And third, Microsoft's Surface tablet isn't likely to be a threat to the PC ecosystem. Yes, Microsoft has acknowledged the risk of competing with OEMs, but it's a move the company has to make.
In addition, Wang needs Windows 8 to sell ultrabooks and help Acer grow again. Acer's first quarter earnings presentation highlighted how important Windows 8 will be. All Acer has to do is deliver compelling hardware designs---Surface or not.
Related: Microsoft's Surface strategy may force us to find another platform, says Acer | Bott: Microsoft's radical new business plan is hidden in plain sight | Microsoft Surface will be a real iPad rival in the enterprise, say CIOs | The competitive 'problem' in the tablet market isn't the OEM business model | Microsoft and OEMs: New game, new rules | Debate: Did Microsoft throw users under the bus?
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