An oversimplified rebranding project can still have a wonderful execution, so wait to see the whole picture develop with Microsoft’s new look. If this move is truly ideology-driven, I think it will be a very successful rebrand.
I’m actually excited about Microsoft’s Metro design ui language. If you’re not familiar, it’s principals are grounded in our favorite Swiss design movement, with a focus on typography over graphics. I’ve played around with a Windows smart phone and it looks and behaves brilliantly; I’ll even say better than an iPhone. Here is the preview of the new Windows 8, and being in a PC dominated office, I can’t wait to work with it.
The new Microsoft logo that you see above is really a bit out of context. You have to really see it in it’s intended environment: websites, packaging, tablets, signage, advertising and absolutely the new Windows operating system. There is a universe that the old logo is too outdated to fit into.
My initial thought about the Microsoft store opening up in Boston is that this is a bit too close to Apple. But as this store grows out in the next few years, I think that Microsoft’s Metro design language is going to differentiate itself more and more.
Microsoft no longer wants to be seen as the economy brand you can get at Best Buy and Apple the premium one you get at the fancy Apply store. If they’re really going to compete I think there’s going to be some amazing products and excellent design interfaces being implemented in the next few years.
