Why Nokia controls the fate of Windows OS

Microsoft struggled for years under the scrutiny of pundits and being bullied by post-PC era giants like Apple and Google, who shoved the design-challenged company into the proverbial locker like the nerd it was thought to be.

While ruling the PC and desktop computing world, they faded from the minds of consumers as programs, styluses and monitors were replaced by apps, smartphones and tablets.

This post-PC era ushered in a time when media consumption became more important than productivity, and concepts like "operating system" and "user interface" became more important than the specs of the devices that ran them. Even then, Microsoft didn't fare so well. Their ill-fated Zune mp3 player was laughed right off the market after coming late to the party.

But in 2011, Microsoft made itself over with the launch of its Windows Phone OS and re-emerged more hipster than tech dweeb, determined to shed its visually-impaired past and become trendy once again.

And unlike with the Zune, they may have gotten it right this time. Those same critics who mocked Microsoft's lack of design acumen have gone head over heels for their Windows Phone OS, nearly all of them saying it's superior to Android and some even going so far as to say it's better than iOS.

Despite the critical acclaim, sales of Windows Phones have been weak, and that's putting it lightly. But this year, Microsoft is looking to change that.

A Blue Chip Device

Many have argued that the biggest factor holding Microsoft back has been the lack of of a flagship phone. Android had the Motorola Droid and Apple had the iPhone. Both of those devices had the build quality and the marketing muscle to gain a foothold in the market (or in Apple's case, take over the market).

With the Lumia 800 and the newly-announced Lumia 900, the Windows Phone OS finally has a quality device that can attract new users to the platform. The Windows 7.5 OS (Mango)-powered Lumia 900 features a 4.3-inch AMOLED ClearBlack display and the distinctive, soft-touch black or cyan polycarbonate shell that the Lumia 800 made popular. It will be exclusive to AT&T, with support for 4G LTE connectivity.

Under the hood, it's got a 1.4GHz single core processor and 512MB of RAM. Those specs themselves aren't going to blow anyone away, but Nokia has been smart about the marketing here. Instead of trying to engage a spec war with the Android devices, they've been showing off the speed of the phone in real-world scenarios. It's an effective way of appealing to a broader consumer base, which is who Microsoft and Nokia desperately need to bring on board.

No OS can succeed without the right hardware, and thanks to Nokia, Microsoft is finally covered on that front.

Video Post: Tech Predictions for 2012

Following Andrea's social media predictions for the new year, Steve offers his predictions for technology in 2012. He covers an increased focus on television, the future of webOS and possible surprise acquisitions that could shake up the market.

Video Post: 2012 Predictions

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Top Brands on Pinterest

The newest and hottest social network to break the top 10 list is Pinterest. The visually appealing, micro-blogging site allows users to find, share and organize online images they find inspiring. It has exploded from 1.2 million users in August to over 4 million today, and it's still technically invite only.

All of this attention has caught the eye of brands, especially those in the home, garden and lifestyle sector. It's a smart marketing move, as the largest audience on Pinterest is comprised of women ages 25-34, with interests in those categories.

Below are a few brands that (according to Pinterest) really know how to utilize all that the site has to offer:

1. Whole Foods
2. Martha Stewart
3. Better Homes and Gardens
4. Real Simple
5. West Elm
6. Bergdorf Goodman
7. Today
8. Travel Channel

What makes them so successful?

1. Brand Focus
They all know how to showcase their brand, whether it be food, design or destinations. For example, Whole Foods has boards that highlight their own Whole Foods recipes. Real Simple posts craft ideas and inspiration that comes from their magazine.

2. Become a Resource 
All of these successful brands have become a resource for their followers. They contribute helpful information that is in line with their image and mission. Today for example has boards with tips and behind-the-scenes peaks from the show. Better Homes and Gardens makes sure you will never be floundering for a dinner recipe with boards ranging from "Healthy Dinner Recipes" to "Casseroles to Make Tonight!"

3. Board Quality
One of the most defining traits of successful interest pages are rich, full boards. No one wants to follow a board that has sporadic or few pins. Bergdorf Goodman has 20 boards, all devoted to a fun trends and style. The Travel Channel offers beautiful picture after picture of travel destinations and finds.

It won't be long until more brands are realizing the potential of Pinterest to highlight their product or service in a highly visual network. What do you think? Are you following any brands on Pinterest?

Video Post: CES 2012 Las Vegas Preview

Axiom is showcasing three great clients at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES.) Here's just a taste of what media and show attendees will see.