Microsoft is expected to launch Windows 8 mid 2012
Although Windows 7 has had great success, Microsoft wanted the next version to expand on their existing features and UI.
Microsoft released the early version of Windows 8 on a prototype tablet last week. Anyone wishing to download the Developer Preview may do so.
It is available for free download, and comes in three different packages:
- (1) 64-bit version – Only the OS
- (2) 32-bit version – Only the OS
- (3) 64-bit version with developer tools
From some of the testing done so far, the developer preview of Windows 8 itself is pretty reliable, but the same isn't true of some of the Metro apps. This developer preview is to encourage developers to start writing Metro applications, and to remind users that an iPad or Android tablet isn't the only option.
Windows 8 features:
- Support for both x86 PCs and ARM Tablets
- Windows to Go
- Windows Store - similar to Mac App store
- Windows 8 User Interface
- Improved Windows Defender
- Internet Explorer 10
- Windows 8 Repair
Windows 8 is Microsoft's combined desktop, laptop and tablet operating system.
Windows To Go will be make it possible to boot from a usb device using user's programs, settings and files using either 2.0 or 3.0.
Other changes include the Windows Logon Screen which can be accessed by tapping on the right areas of the screen instead of the traditional password. The Start Screen is also new grouping all of your applications together. The Control Panel, Video, and Task Manager pages will also look different. An improved Windows Defender with added protection for virus, worms, trojans and rootkits. Windows 8 repair enables you to choose between a full reset and a refresh.
Here are the following minimum system requirements to run Windows 8:
- Processor: 1GHz or faster 32-bit or 64-bit processor
- RAM: 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit)
- HD Space: 16GB for 32-bit (or 20GB for 64-bit)
