Microsoft won’t be “Riding on the Metro” Name
Microsoft’s ticket has been cancelled for its long ride using the Metro name for upcoming Windows 8. Having used the name throughout the development in marketing, announcements, and materials, Microsoft has been notified by Metro AG, a German retailer that it holds a trademark on the Metro name. This potential threat of legal action has been enough for Microsoft to begin utilizing the name “Windows 8 style UI” until a new name is agreed upon internally.
Microsoft has used the name throughout its press and it has been the standard when describing the UI for windows 8 and Windows phone as well as other high level products. It is surprising that this hasn’t come up earlier considering the name has been used for quite a while to describe this interface. Considering the launch of Windows 8 is a mere 2 months away and the final version of Windows 8 has been sent to manufacturers the timing for Metro Ag and Microsoft seems peculiar.
Metro was a good name for Microsoft and widely adopted for the new user interface. Changing the name this late in the game may be an annoyance but it is unlikely that many consumers will have a problem with it. The platform will be known as Windows 8 so any sub names to that, shouldn’t have much effect on sales. I can’t wait to see the new name, as the current iteration, “Windows 8 Style UI” seems oh so Microsoft it will be interesting to see if they are able to come up with something as cool as “metro”.
MDF and Vendor Marketing Programs are Cumbersome but Worthwhile Tales from the Cloud – Episode 23
