Microsoft faces challenges in the tablet market due to its late entry, according to “Forrester Research” (http://www.forrester.com). While Windows 8 looks like a “promising product” for tablet computing, its release won’t come until sometime next year, according to the research group.

Though Microsoft’s OEM [original equipment manufacturers] partners are embracing the platform, consumer interest has plummeted during the past nine months. Windows product strategists will have to overcome several disadvantages associated with being a fifth mover in the tablet market, per Forrester Research.