Microsoft has had its share of ups and downs this year. The tech giant has always struggled with the smartphone market, which is why it released only one Lumia device for 2016 - the Lumia 650.
For the most part of the year, Microsoft concentrated on what it does best by focusing on the Windows 10 for PC use over mobile use. And of course, everybody else was caught off-guard and impressed when the company launched the Surface Studio.
Microsoft Surface Studio
While Apple's recent launch of its MacBook Pro left a lot of people disappointed, Microsoft's launch of the Surface Studio was met with a pleasant surprise. This product is definitely not for the mass-market, as it has been created specifically for artists and creative. The product's YouTube video alone has generated more than 11 million views.
The zero-gravity hinge design makes it possible for you to use it as an ordinary PC monitor, or you can fold it down to become a drawing board or a writing surface while in Studio mode. Many people has dubbed this little piece of ingenuity and innovation as an "iMac killer." The Surface Studio makes working with a PC more intuitive and seamless for its intended audience.
Xbox One S
If you are looking for a very good gaming console that also allows you to stream videos, the Xbox One S is the right gadget for you. The Xbox One S supports the HDR, 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, and 4K streaming video. It also comes in three models, where you can choose from the 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB hard drives.
It is also 40% smaller than the Xbox One, so instead of getting a bulky console, you get to have a slim and sleek gaming machine. Unfortunatey, it does not have a Kinect port, so if you are a Kinect gamer, you will need to buy an adapter in order for it to work with the Xbox One S.
Surface Pro 4 Tablet
This tablet is a Windows 10 device that can do virtually anything that your laptop can do, just in a smaller package. The tablet comes with a keyboard (sold separately) and a stylus, which makes it a great alternative for people who prefer to carry something light.
Windows 10
Windows 10 just keeps getting better, as the operating system just got a refresh with its Anniversary Update. The company brought back the "Start" menu and made some tweaks on it. It also added "Windows Ink," which allows you to use a stylus and write on touch devices.
2017 will be an interesting year for Microsoft. As early as now, there are rumors that a Surface phone could be launched next year.
