How I became authentically digital, or: what you need to know about the “Metro” design language

Microsoft’s “Metro” design language first appeared on Windows phone, and has now been adapted for Xbox and Windows 8. Since its appearance it has generated a combination of praise, confusion and copious discussion among interaction designers. Is Metro a valid attempt to evolve the art of interactive products and services? Or is it a deliberate strategy to commoditise interaction design to the point where it requires less design, and less designers?