Despite Android gaining momentum as the fastest growing mobile OS in 2010, MacWorld is reporting tablet OEMs are favouring Microsoft's Windows 7 in their desire to build iPad killers.

It claims Taiwanese laptop manufacturer Micro-Star International (MSI) – which previously showed off an Android based tablet prototype – now plans to launch a Windows 7 based tablet instead.

From iPad to Eee Pad

MSI's move comes after Asustek pledged its first tablet PC – Eee Pad – to Windows 7, after similarly pitching it as an Android device at the Consumer Electronics Show back in January.

It marks what appears to be a wider resurgence in Microsoft's fortunes in the mobile business too, the firm using its strong contacts with OEMs in Taiwan while simultaneously shaking up its entertainment division.

Chatter suggests J Allard – the man largely attributed as being the driving force behind Xbox 360 and Zune – is considering leaving Microsoft as the firm looks to redirect its entertainment arsenal in the direction of iPhone and Android.

 

Courier-ing favour

Allard was notable in his support for Microsoft's planned dual screen ebook reader Courier, which the firm recently put in hibernation after deciding to link up with thirdarty tablet OEMs instead.

The impressive Windows Phone 7 platform, due to launch towards the end of the year, will also square up to Apple and iPhone head on, while tablet tie-ups with MIS and the like could oust Android as the market leading alternative to iPad in the years to come.

Nonetheless, Google still has a hand or two in play, with HP plumping for Android and, naturally, the recently purchased webOS for its own venture into the world of tablets, while MSI and Asustek still say they will release Android tablets at some point. 

[source: MacWorld]