Windows RT: Dawn of a new era, Gartner says

The marriage between Microsoft® and Intel® has a long and storied history. For decades, the two technology powerhouses have been inseparable, forming a partnership that has propelled both to the top of the PC industry. However, like all celebrity marriages, such a famed partnership could only be expected to last for so long.

Though they've agreed to stay together for the kids, both Microsoft and Intel seem interested in exploring new options, and according to research firm Gartner, Windows® 8 may be stirring the pot.

Along with the upcoming release of Windows 8, Microsoft also plans to introduce the newly minted Windows RT, a version of the operating system designed to run on non-Intel-based devices. The move, Gartner argues, is necessary for Microsoft to remain relevant in an era when tablet computers have taken the world by storm. Though Intel has a tablet presence, the market is currently dominated by the ARM architecture and chipmakers like Qualcomm®.

Intel is also making new moves. As of yet, Microsoft does not represent a significant part of the mobile market, meaning Intel would likely benefit by exploring new avenues as well.

This is not to say the so-called "Wintel" era is dead. According to a 2011 Canalys report, Wintel machines currently dominate the PC space, accounting for just below 82 percent of the market. Though the companies are exploring new options, they're not yet ready to pack it in.