Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Microsoft's New Windows 8 Preview Launches Today

It's official! The Windows 8 consumer preview launched today! Wow, this definitely looks impressive. This is by far the most dramatic change we've seen in Windows yet. Below are pictures of what you can expect to see after downloading it. If you'd like to try it out, the download link is at the bottom of the post. 

Charms 
Charms are one of the central pillars behind Windows 8’s design. Swipe your finger (or hover your mouse pointer) on the right edge of the screen, and you’ll get instant access to Search and Sharing functionality, as well as your devices and settings. These charms are designed to work with your apps, too; if you’re browsing the web and have a link you’d like to pass along, tapping the Share charm will give you quick access to the email client, or services like Facebook and Twitter.
Settings 
The settings menu contains a lot of stuff we’re used to seeing on tablets but not in Windows, like virtual keyboard settings and notifications.
Pinball 
One of the two pre-installed games is Pinball FX 2, which is really a fantastic title. Too bad only one table is available.

Solitaire 

The other built-in game is an old standby: Solitaire. This one is touch-enabled, but otherwise unremarkable. What, no Minesweeper? Hopefully these built-in games are a little more polished and feature-rich in the final release.
Tweets from @PCWorld who attended the Window's consumer preview event:

  • XBox Live, already found on Windows Phone, will also be a part of Windows 8.
  • You can run multiple apps on the same screen by dragging and "docking" them. MSFT just showed a video and IM client running together.
  • To close an app in Windows 8, you simple touch and drag it off the screen.
  • Don't like touch screens? Don't worry, you can use Windows 8 easily with a mouse and keyboard. Microsoft is showing us now...
  • To zoom in, you click the magnifying glass icon in the corner. Move the mouse up to the left corner brings you to your open apps. #win8
See more pictures of Microsoft 8 by clicking here.


Download your preview of Windows 8 today!



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