And the answer to that question is a resounding “YES!” Todd Brix, the Senior Director of the Windows Phone Apps Team for Microsoft has announced that Windows Phone app downloads and developer revenue has more than doubled since the advent of Windows Phone 8 in November. While it was unclear whether he was comparing the numbers to November 2011 or October 2012, SiliconANGLE Contributing Editor John Casaretto believes regardless of the comparison month, this is a good sign. He said, “This is good news for Microsoft . . .the better the apps, the better the eco-system, the more people will adopt the new operating system.”

Despite the numerous headlines of Windows 8 success, overall, Microsoft is still not pleased with the sluggish adoption rate of Windows 8. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday week behind us, Casaretto acknowledged that Microsoft was probably hoping for a huge consumer wave during some of the heaviest shopping days of the year. He remained positive by reminding viewers that it’s early and there’s time for things to turn around and still meet Microsoft’s expectations.

According to SuperSite for Windows, Microsoft has contributed their disappointment to PC manufacturers’ “inability to deliver.” The OEMs, however, are not as down about Windows 8, having projected more modestly on the adoption factor.

Jeff Barney, VP and General Manager of Toshiba’s PC and TV business for America thinks that branding and marketing around Windows 8 could use some improvement, especially in promoting touch as a key feature.  Casaretto confirmed this, saying that “Touch is the big game changer for Windows 8.  It’s front and center, and there needs to be more focus on it.”  He pointed out that a device can have all the features possible, but if the public doesn’t adopt or accept that technology, it won’t grow, thus leaving the market dead in
the water.  He feels that Microsoft really needs to control that message and the adoption and feed off the numbers as they come in.  See the whole segment with Kristin Feledy and John Casaretto on the Morning NewsDesk Show.