Microsoft Windows 8

Well the time has come for Microsoft to revamp their software, therefore they have created Windows 8.  It is due for release on the 26th of October.  

So what does Windows 8 mean for you? 

Windows 8 is a new release for Microsoft’s operating system directed more towards touch screens.  As more and more people use smaller and more mobile hardware, easier and more efficient operating systems are needed. Does this mean those of you with a desktop computer or laptop are missing out? Definitely not. 

Windows 8 makes better use of something called hardware acceleration. Normally, software can only run so fast, but with hardware acceleration, it can make better use of the parts within your system to make everything that little bit faster. 

On top of making your computer perform better, Windows 8 is made to be uniform across all devices. This means those with a PC can get the same experience from their phone, or their tablet or their all-in-one. 

Windows 8 comes in three different flavours. Firstly, Windows RT, which is for power-smart tablets and phones; Windows 8 standard, which is for tablets, phones and PC’s and will support most of your standard software; and Windows 8 Pro, which is like Windows 8 standard, except it includes Media Centre and other features. 

Please note, the Windows RT and Windows 8 on tablets are different, and support different applications. If you are looking for a specific program to work on your touch device, please contact your local computer professional to ask which would best suit you. 

For those of you who have bought or are going to buy a PC with Windows 7 installed on it between 2-Jun-2012 and  31-Jan-2013, you can purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for only $14.99. For those of you who didn’t happen to buy a PC between those dates, an upgrade can be purchased from $69.00 until 31-Jan-2013. After that date, Microsoft will revert back to normal RRP from $199.00. 

As always, speak to your local computer specialists to ensure you get the right advice before buying or upgrading to Windows 8.