Tim Cook on Windows 8 laptop / tablet hybrids: ‘anything can be forced to converge’

Apple might freely mix and match features and ideas between OS X and iOS, but CEO Tim Cook doesn’t think Microsoft’s strategy of putting Windows 8 on both tablets and laptops is the right idea. Asked about Windows 8 and hybrid tablet / laptop devices during Apple’s Q2 2012 earnings call today, Cook said that “anything can be forced to converge, but the problem is that products are about tradeoffs, and you begin to make tradeoffs to the point where what you have left doesn’t please anyone. You can converge a toaster and a refrigerator, but those things are probably not gonna be pleasing to the user.”

“Products are about tradeoffs, and you begin to make tradeoffs to the point where what you have left doesn’t please anyone.”

Cook followed up by saying that the limit for iPad sales is “nowhere in sight” as Apple continues to “double down on making great products.” He also emphasized the continued potential of the MacBook Air, saying that while he thinks there’s a “good market” for Apple’s ultralight laptop, it “appeals to someone that has different needs... you wouldn’t want to compromise, you’ll end up pleasing no one. The compromise of convergence — we’re not going to that party. Others might from a defensive point, particularly, but we’re going to play in both.”