When you say Microsoft, I laugh, Linux all the way!!

Homey G, Pointy-Claire,

Mr Gates has visions, but he hasn't been a reliable IT visionary for many, many years.
How long ago did he promise that Microsoft would put an end to email spam? Now about 90% of the world's email is spam -- most of it originating in the US, where Bill Gates's insight and influence should be at its greatest.
Over-complexity in software and attempts to monopolise technology with proprietary hardware & software (Apple and MS are the worst in this area) makes Gates's vision even less likely.
Today's Microsoft even appears to have trouble releasing a new operating system - their core business - so why would Gates imagine that MS or anyone will soon get multiple devices to integrate seamlessly and easily?

ken , Brisbane, Australia

Always remember, Bill is giving away YOUR money.
The problem for MS is that they are rarely the entity to push something through at the consumer level. If touch and talk are to break-through, I'd suspect Apple is more likely to be the Company to make it indispensible. And it's not going to happen unless it is easier than current alternatives. Microsoft was the company that thought a Home Server would be a nifty way for Aunt Minerva to manage her network. Maybe, but not until it's plug and play. MS reminds me of SONY's solution for DOWNLOADING DRM-free music: Step 1 - Drive to store and buy a plastic code card...

Kevin, Honolulu, USA

Sounds like you're all just typically negative critical fools. Anything I've been able to touch and talk to, I've never gone back. You can stick to your dork QWERTY keyboards if you like.

You have to consider the experience of being able to touch and talk to things naturally, it makes work a whole lot more fun. Also, you won't have to be trained so intensely. Everyone already knows how to touch something. I think the experience is more important than the convenience of F2 and a Num Lock key.

On the other hand, try a cappaccino with a caramel shot. You'll love it. Smile, and stay positive. Have a nice day.

Jackson Capper, Burleigh Waters, QLD

Actually, it was Bill Gates's father who suggested he give money away so people would think better of him - but good for him for listening to his Dad.

I've just gone back to Apple - praise be.

Cyril Wigglew, Portsmouth, Hampshire

Bill's legacy will not be in his contribution to computer software - he was simply there at the right time with the right idea and marketing drive! - but to his out-of-this world generosity and unprecedented donation of the bulk of his earnings to the poor.

We've all paid for Gate's mistakes and continue so to do. But any fair minded person has to admire his philosophy of programming his financial gains to ensure that the bulk of his wealth is made available to disadvantaged others BEFORE he meets up with his Maker.

The self-indulgent, superficial, vastly over-rated and over-paid super-rich, so-called celebrities of this world have everything to learn from Bill Gates.

Maxadolf, Epsom, UK

What's wrong with actually speaking to your friends?

Why must everything now be done electronically?

Rosalie V, Chichester, England

The usual unfocused hot air, if the summary is to be believed. For a supposed visionary, (who has - allegedly - "borrowed" all Microsoft's biggest money-spinners from others) his early declarations on the internet were hilarious (ditto his clinging to tablet PCs). He does NOT understand the average home- / office- user. Ever heard of focus groups?

Touch - Obscure the screen with your hand while you work and cover in smudges. Shift and Alt?

Voice - In an open-plan office? In the library? While listening to the radio?

He is on another, rather sad, planet.

Simon Bee, Wokingham, UK