Microsoft next inline OS code named Windows 8 is set to debut within the next 18 month months, expected for a release sometime in 2012. Recent coverage at Microsoft keynote address at D9 has shown a few more glimpses demonstrated on a few tablets, its seems Microsoft have incorporated the tiles theme found on Windows phone 7 and from the Rain meter plug in Omnimo .
One point to note is that certain features and functions from Windows 7 are incorporated into Windows 8 as shown in the video hyperlink below, be sure to check it out.
It appears that Windows 8 will be available for both Desktops, Laptops and Tablet although the operating system has been built from scratch for touch screen usability, unlike other platforms windows 8 for the tablet isn’t a simple port over, also it is known that the tablet version of the OS will be running mobile apps based on JavaScript and HTML 5.
The touch functionality is preference based for the desktop version as standard mouse and keyboard are still viable options for those without touch screen monitors / PC. Input ability on the table is based on virtual keyboard with multiple methods of typing from split keyboard for vertical usage.
Multitasking functionality is performed by swiping current running apps into the center of the screen as well as the windows 7 snap function is also included.
A new version of IE 10 with Silver-light capabilities and is set to have a built in appstore into the touch interface as well as integrated services such as Microsoft newly purchased Skype as well as Office 365.
Benefits of Windows 8 running on tablets is many desktop applications being fully functional on a tablet when compared to the current iOS or Android base tablets which are running mobile applications.
Tablets are currently Atom based, with ARM designs being looked into, Microsoft have confirmed that Windows 8 will support NVIDIA, Qualcomm and TI.
At the moment cost and availability isn’t mentioned but more information is expected in September at the Windows Developer Conference.
Microsoft covers Windows 8 basic information on the build and UI, which can be found in the video below:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p92QfWOw88I[/youtube]
From what we can see Windows 8 as shown seems to run very fluidly and flawlessly, looks like good things to come from Windows 8.
Looking grooooooooooovy :Dcan't wait to see the gaming extras 😀
Why dose Microsoft always bring out windows with features that the vast majority of user will never use :rolleyes:
agreed :p!dont like the look of that weird interface :confused:
I would like it if they added more options to the aero theme, I find it to limited in win7 and I would wish microsoft would work on DirectX to make more use with the power new PC have over consoles. Here is a good article about the problems PCs Are 10x More Powerful Than Consoles | Rock, Paper, Shotgun