At its developer-focused BUILD conference, Microsoft Corp. today presented a detailed preview of the next major release of Windows, code-named "Windows 8." The company also detailed new tools for developers to help write applications for what it claimed were more than 1 billion people around the world using Windows every day.
New features in Windows 8, include the following:
A new UI built for touch, but also said to be at home with a mouse and keyboard as well.
New features in Windows 8, include the following:
A new UI built for touch, but also said to be at home with a mouse and keyboard as well.
Apps built for Windows 8 are the focal point of the user experience, filling the entire screen so there are no distractions.
Apps can work together and communicate with each other in Windows 8. For example, you can select and email photos from different places, such as Facebook, Flickr or on your hard drive.
User experience that syncs across devices. Live roams for all the content from the cloud services used most -- photos, email, calendar and contacts -- keeping them up-to-date on all devices.
New developer opportunities include:
Windows Store. The Windows Store will allow developers to sell their apps anywhere Windows is sold worldwide.
Build using more languages. Microsoft says Windows 8 will let you leverage your existing skills and code assets and use the programming language you prefer.
DirectX 11 gaming power underlies Windows 8, allowing the creation of full-screen games with smooth action.
Microsoft 8 will offer support for ARM-based chipsets, x86- (as well as x32 and x64) devices, touch and sensors. The goal is for Windows 8 to work across a spectrum of devices, from 10-inch tablets and laptops to all-in-ones with 27-inch high-definition screens. “Next-generation” (unexplained) system on a
chip (SoC) support will also enable greatly extended standby and low-power states, according to the company.
chip (SoC) support will also enable greatly extended standby and low-power states, according to the company.
Developers will be able to download the Windows Developer Preview via the new Windows Dev Center later this week.