14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft’s marketing blitz for its new Windows 8 operating system continues, this time with a campaign aimed at UAE buyers of its new software.
Microsoft Gulf and Emirates Holidays are offering Windows 8 users the opportunity to win a trip to some popular holiday destinations, including Istanbul, Dublin, Prague, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
According to AME Info, those who purchase Windows 8 devices before December 5 are eligible for the grand prize that includes two return Economy Class tickets on Emirates airlines plus four-star accommodation with breakfast and return airport transfers.
"With Windows 8 users have a lot to celebrate. Not only will they enjoy a faster, more fluid experience with Windows reimagined and a unique personalized user experience, they will also enter the draw to win one of eight Emirates Holidays packages up for grabs," said Faith Murray, Windows Business Group Lead, Microsoft Gulf.
The participating retailers include Carrefour, Sharaf DG, Plugins, Jumbo, Jackys, Lulu, Emax, Virgin and Compume. The grand prize winner will be announced on December 6.
Microsoft’s advertising efforts for Windows 8 don’t seem to be paying off, as the new operating system is reportedly considered a disappointing product when it comes to sales.
Source from within the Redmond campus have hinted that Steve Ballmer and the other Microsoft executives have called Windows 8’s sales “disappointing” and even blamed the PC industry for the lack of devices running its new operating system.
If we are to trust analysts, Windows 8 sales would be much improved in 2013, as the PC industry it relies on is also expected to post a significant recovery.
The problem, however, is that consumers are still considering Windows 7 their top choice, as the lack of a Start menu and a Start button is believed to turn Windows 8 into a truly confusing working environment.