WinHEC 2006 Keynote -- My Overall Impressions and Grade
by Larry Richman
May 23, 2006

Live from WinHEC -- The WinHEC 2006 Keynotes kicked off with a welcome from Marshall Brumer, General Manager of Windows Hardware Platform Evangelism. We had actually just spent some time with him a couple of weeks ago, as he led one of the sessions we had at the Vista Lab in Redmond. Mr. Brumer then introduced Bill Gates for the WinHEC 2006 Keynote topic, “Advancing The Platform.”

Highlights and lowlights:

* The progression from 32 to 64-bit computing has been much smoother than previous transitions (16 to 32, etc.)

* Soon we will see 64-bit only applications from MS – Exchange Server 2007 will be the first—it’s about time!

* 64-bit desktop penetration will hit 100% by 2009 – do you believe it?

* Multi-core is another huge innovation which is coming on strong – we will also see 100% market penetration of multi-core by 2009 – no surprise there

* Jeff Woolsey on Windows Server Virtualization – Beta will be out later this year, after Longhorn Server is released – a very impressive demo – oohs and ahhs

* The “PC Ecosystem” is coming together as a concept – Windows Media Center is at the heart of it – some very impressive gains

* And now…announcing the release of Beta 2: Windows Vista, Windows Server Longhorn, and Office 2007

* Mikka Krammer and Shanen Boettcher demonstrate Windows Meeting Space – should be a popular feature – allows impromptu wireless collaboration

* Windows Live Services are exploding – Best Buy is now selling new devices integrated with Windows Live Messenger

* Windows Live product demo – use your phone to make calls using Windows Live Messenger -- gadgets! We love gadgets!

* FlexGo – an emerging markets initiative – “pay as you go” PCs – now a hit in Brazil – will bring PCs to developing countries where incomes

In-house
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