Microsoft’s (MSFT) next version of the Windows operating system, codenamed Windows Blue, will reportedly help merge its PC and mobile platforms, according to Digitimes. Windows Blue is said to currently be in development separate from the Windows 8 and Windows Phone units. Microsoft’s overall goal is said to have the operating system compete with Google’s (GOOG) Android and Chrome platforms.
The company is reportedly worried about its manufacturing partners cooperating with Google on Chromebooks and rumored Android-based laptops. It won’t be that simple to merge the two platforms, however. Microsoft is expected to run into problems, like Google has, because of the time it takes to properly integrate many related technologies into one product.
The latest rumors suggest that Windows Blue will be announced in June for an October launch.