Microsoft, HP launch PC prototype ‘Athens’

Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect at Microsoft, unveiled a new PC prototype designed to enhance the computing experience and usher in the next wave of innovation for the PC industry during his opening keynote at the 12th annual Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC). Gates showed the new PC prototype as just one example of the type of innovation required to address the needs of users—innovation that is only possible when hardware and software are developed together.

Co-developed with HP and code-named ‘Athens,’ the advanced PC prototype simplifies PC operations while merging all forms of communication—including next-generation voice, video and text messaging—into a consistent, streamlined design.

“The hardware industry and Microsoft are leading the next wave of PC development by creating unprecedented levels of synergy between hardware and software,” Gates said. “The result will be innovative products that improve the way customers work, communicate, learn and are entertained. The ‘Athens’ PC prototype is just one example of the amazing things that are possible when hardware and software companies collaborate deeply on new designs.”

“In a world where technology is increasingly commoditising, the need for innovation that solves real business problems and creates a richer customer experience is stronger than ever,” said Carly Fiorina, chairman and chief executive officer of HP. “Just as we did with the Tablet PC and the Media Centre PC, HP and Microsoft are creating a new standard of joint innovation in hardware, software and product design. The ‘Athens’ prototype PC will empower business customers with an entirely new class of business technology that provides a seamless and natural experience for communications and collaboration.”