Cornerplay articles

One of the best things about the Surface Pro 3 is its pen. It's changed the way I take notes, brainstorm and review PDFs. As useful as the pen is, however, I can't help but think its implementation in Windows is a half-measure.

What if Microsoft had just branded the Surface as an Office-dedicated device? Let's call it the Microsoft 'Officebook'. It's the thinnest and lightest portable computer for full Office. It's not a device for tech geeks; it's a device for the average consumer with simple requirements, and Office.

Today I'll refer to how I recently set up my email accounts for best efficiency leveraging one service you probably already use: Gmail, but in a specific context. To combat spam and unify my inboxes everywhere.

Earlier this week it was confirmed that Microsoft is acquiring Minecraft maker Mojang for $2.5 billion. I've got mixed feelings about the transaction. The press is speculating that Microsoft is acquiring Minecraft so it can "tap into a cultural phenomenon" and entice players to Microsoft's platforms. I don't buy either explanation.

I don't even know why Apple bothered with the iPhone 6, because it will go the way of the iPhone 5C: a niche product; a consolation prize; the budget choice for Apple loyalists; something you get begrudgingly and regret later. The iPhone 6 Plus is the superior phone.

The common refrain has been that tablets are for consumption and that laptops are for productivity, and never the twain shall meet. But it's a different world today, and now Apple and Google want to cross that bridge, too, into Microsoft territory. Apple with the iPad Pro, and Google with the new Nexus.

Small Chinese companies like Xiaomi and OnePlus were able to create markets even while competitors like Apple and Samsung spend billions in advertising their smartphones. Their success is a blueprint for others to follow, whether they're running an established smartphone company or starting one, even with comparatively little resources.

The big thing most people misunderstand about Ballmer is that he's unbelievably smart. They see him going crazy on the stage and assume the man is a joke. I can assure you he's anything but. What you see on the surface is a ton of passion for Microsoft.