Windows 8 is final and has reached RTM status, which means it is being sent out to be installed in products. OEM partners have received the software and started building computers for the launch on October 26th, 2012.
Microsoft’s development of Windows 8 has been well documented, where the software giant has been open with the work and posted updates on the official developer blog. One of the major reasons Microsoft has been so open is due to the new tone of the system and the change in product focus. Not the least the touch-friendly Metro interface that will most likely take some getting used for the traditional desktop users.
Windows 8 has many new functions where an improved support for USB 3.0 is mixed with faster boot times, clouod storage and search function, and spell checking across the system. The list of news is long and extensive, but the biggest news is still a fresh interface where Microsoft hopes to attract both regular users and mobile users. Windows 8 Metro will be a breaking point for many and the transition could be rough for Microsoft, where companies like Valve and Blizzard have expressed concern over Microsoft’s new focus on touch technology, before mouse and keyboard.
“With improvements in fundamentals, enhanced storage and connectivity, newly architected subsystems, the “fast and fluid” user experience, and the WinRT platform (to name a few), Windows 8 has literally thousands of new features. We did a record number of blogs posts (and videos) and did not even come close to covering the full breadth of Windows 8. There’s much left to learn about and discover in the product.”
The reception of Windows 8 is hard to predict, we will simply have to wait and see. Unfortunately there are no prices for the retail versions of Windows 8, but the upgrade from Windows 7 will be very affordable. On August 15th the RTM version will be available on Microsofts TechNet/MSDN to download. Those who can wait can download the preview of Windows 8 at Microsoft’s website.
The users are the ones who determines if this will be a success or not, and Metro is going to be a challenge.
