IMHO:
Microsoft has been failing at mobile markets, it has openly stated that it doesn't see value in *pad/*tablet because it can't see it as being an irreplaceable entity. Well they jumped on the bandwagon too little and too late and now they have a real chance to gain power in new markets to make up for it. It's not news that the desktop market is still widely dominated by them but what will become evident (if isn't already blaringly obvious) is that the desktop is soon to see extinction. I don't mean that desktops will stop being used I'm saying you will be reading your slashdot from your tv, your phone, your pad, or perhaps another interface that has yet to be imagined/developed much more than that bulky thing under your desk. Anyway the new interfaces are being made now and if they have any sense they will make this tech cheaper (mass production) and start licensing with the next DVR installed in your house. I'm no fan of microsoft, but as a passive observer and a speculative commentator it seems almost too simple to me.