Crazy Steve Ballmer
CES Las Vegas 2009 officially kicks off tonight with the pre-show keynote. This year, Steve Ballmer, Microsoft’s CEO, heads up the first keynote.
We just sat down, Steve is still talking about the company’s broader future direction. Keep checking back for highlights from the pre-show keynote.
6:40pm
Steve talks about TV, computer, and mobile phones defining our connected lives
6:41pm
Steve: “Mobile phones are becoming more capable than ever.” “Smartphones will make up most of the mobile phone market”
6:44pm
Voice interaction with mobile phones is the natural progression of the mobile space. Look for more intuitive interfaces across your PC, phone, and other devices (netbooks)
6:45pm
“By bringing together PC, phone, TV, plus the ‘cloud,’ we can create an experience that makes a difference in people’s lives.”
6:46pm
At the center of all this is… you guessed it, “Windows!”
Steve is really embracing cloud computing
“Windows has become the language that over a billion people speak”
6:46pm
Video playing – showcases all the cool Windows hardware on market
6:51pm
Steve envisions a “life without walls.”
Windows 7 will apparently be the “best windows ever.” – will make everyday tasks simple and easier
6:52pm
Steve just launched Windows 7 beta!
6:55pm
11 different Windows Mobile phones have sold over 30 million
6:56pm
Microsoft Live Search will be installed on-deck with Verizon
6:57pm
Windows 7 demonstration – evolutionary, not revolutionary
7:04pm
Samsung Omnia demonstration – posting photo to Windows Live
7:31pm
New mobile application allows you to manage your XBOX Live Netflix queue. Will be available later this year.
7:39pm
Key trends are driving technological innovation – Moore’s Law requires innovation in more efficient programming; HD displays will become smaller, lighter and more portable; phones, PCs, and the internet will become a single platform for mobile experiences.
7:48pm
Ballmer excited to be a part of the tech industry. Ends keynote to significant applause
7:50pm
So that’s it! Microsoft is really pushing their cloud computing initiative and will apparently be looking to take the TV, PC, and Mobile spaces to the next level. More intuitive interfaces, more powerful hardware, and seamless communication is going to define Microsoft in 2009. Let CES 2009 begin!