Ballmer Questioned by Microsoft Shareholders: Why Is Apple Rising Quickly

Sina Technology News, evening of November 20 Beijing time, foreign media reported today that Microsoft held its annual general meeting of shareholders on Thursday. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and Chairman Bill Gates attended. A Microsoft shareholder questioned Ballmer about the rapid rise of Apple and mentioned hepatitis B.

A shareholder pointed out that Microsoft's reputation among college students is declining while Apple’s is rising continuously. A shareholder said: "I would like to know why your marketing team cannot do the same thing and try to occupy the next generation of technology consumers. Your image in this market is really bad."

Ballmer responded that there are indeed "opportunities for improvement." He also admitted that Microsoft has a low market share among some groups. However, Ballmer showed disdain for the increase in Apple's market share. He pointed out: "It is important to remember that globally, 96% of people still choose Windows PCs, and that is a good thing."

Another shareholder asked Ballmer how Microsoft plans to deal with the competition from the iPhone (mobile internet) and Android phones. Ballmer said that Microsoft is taking the right strategy, which is focusing on the development of mobile software rather than directly developing phones. (Weijin)

Related reading: Microsoft founder Bill Gates praises Steve Jobs for saving Apple; Apple's market value is $180 billion and could surpass Microsoft within two years; Apple borrows ten functions from Microsoft Windows (with pictures).

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