Microsoft's master plan to put Windows everywhere has hit some bumps, but the company isn't giving up. Its strategy must be implemented at all levels of the operating system, with special emphasis on the interface, the part most exposed to users. This brings us to the Andromeda project, about which not much is known yet, but which carries a clear goal: to bring a more complete and robust desktop experience to other devices, automatically adapting to each format.
The Lessons of Windows 8
Windows 8 had several problems on launch, but one of the most serious was that it dared to disrupt seventeen years of muscle memory. Every version of Windows passed on the knowledge needed to use its successor, which remained more or less intact until Windows 7. But Windows 8 broke everything. Microsoft learned the lesson the hard way and had to make many adjustments in Windows 10. Today we can say Windows 10 provides a relatively stable user experience, and other platforms have started to receive the first benefits. A good part of the responsibility falls on OneCore, but there is still work ahead. Windows needs to be even more vertical, if you will.
Andromeda and CSHELL
That's where Andromeda comes in. Basically, Microsoft's desire is that a user works on Windows 10 on the desktop, then moves to a smartphone, a tablet, the HoloLens headset, or the Xbox One, without the experience changing or deteriorating. From a certain point of view, Andromeda would be the facade of OneCore, a technology that will turn the classic static Windows interface into something dynamic, with the ability to easily adapt to each format, taking into account advanced parameters like screen size and its aspect ratio. The key to this is a kind of 'adaptive shell' called 'Composable Shell', or CSHELL.
Of course, users will need to be very patient. Andromeda and CSHELL will be of great value to those still holding firm on Windows 10 Mobile and enjoying features like Continuum, but both resources are just a 'blip' on the radar. Microsoft must first deliver the Creators Update on Windows 10, hope nothing blows up, and arrive in one piece at the upcoming May 10th, when its Build conference begins.
