by Merrill R. (Rick) Chapman, Softletter Managing Editor In Part One of this article, we took a look at the impending demise of the desktop monolith as epitomized by Microsoft and the problems it’s had with the industry’s most successful product of all time, Windows. In the interval, it’s easy to see that Microsoft itself understands that the current Windows model is in trouble. A couple of weeks ago, Microsoft announced “Universal Windows,” a write once, run on all device strategy. Windows for smartphones is now free to developers. Office is now available on the iPad. A few days ago, ZDNet writer Preston Galla highlighted speculation in his column that Microsoft may stop charging for Windows in the future. Galla doesn’t think Microsoft will ever do that. I think they will within 24 months. The Technology and Markets After Windows To achieve the goal of the portable, transportable computing environment will involve the creation of multiple, device-independent service layers. While we can’t say with certainty at this time what these layers will be, we will make some guesses. Our best encompass: A device independent workspace (also currently known as the desktop, UI, GUI, etc.). This workspace will be highly customizable...