Developers, developers, developers...
As a developer I was excited about the prospects for Windows tablets. I invested in Windows 8 (it's not too bad), and worked on some apps. Then the hardware was delivered. Too expensive and too slow. What a waste... We used to be excited by Microsoft's plans, now, I regret, we struggle to believe them.
Going forward, Microsoft will not only have to regain the technology lead it once had but also regain the confidence of the market (and its developers). IMHO, the first will be easier than the second; perhaps the train has already left the station?