Intel, Microsoft, Nokia: Scratching One Another's Backs

Windows 8, as a an operating system that crosses platforms, holds an incredible amount of promise, however, for Microsoft and Intel, and also for companies like Nokia as well. In a long-term portfolio, all three stocks have their places.

MSFT and INTC fill the role of dividend-paying growth stocks. Both firms have a history of rising dividends with no end to the increases in sight. NOK, of course, represents the speculative play (and, for now, also pays a dividend). With Microsoft's backing (or more), it likely becomes the flagship company to produce Window's-based smartphones and tablets that work seamlessly with any Windows laptop or desktop computer.

In several industries, particularly media, partnerships have become increasingly important. We've seen it happen somewhat rapidly with collaboration between Coinstar(CSTR) and Verizon(VZ) , and Disney(DIS) and Comcast(CMCSA) , just to name a few. Content owners and deliverers, broadcasters, media and telecommunications giants have come to realize that they're much stronger if they operate as a more unified front. These associations give them the ability to better serve consumers who expect to be able to consume content across devices anywhere and anytime.

It's really not all that different in tech, particularly in the gadget and PC spaces. This is one reason why Apple is so successful. You can now download something to your Macbook and it instantly appears on your iPad and iPhone. This is exactly the direction Microsoft is headed with Windows 8. The writing is clearly on the wall. Somebody, outside of Google, is set to be more than just a feeble competitor to Apple.