Windows 8 – the highly-anticipated latest operating system for 90 per cent of the world’s computers – is now available in Australia.
Designed for both consumers and business, Windows 8 can be downloaded to upgrade existing Windows PCs.
Customers running Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 can upgrade to Windows 8.
There will also be a complete new range of PC and tablets available in store from today that will come pre-loaded with Windows 8.
Windows 8 has been optimised not only for desktop and laptop computers but it also compatible with touchscreen devices.
Apart from tablets, there will also be a number of Windows 8 desktop and laptop computers which have also incorporated touchscreen to extend the ways in which a user can interact with the device and access their files and other information.
“With the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft is unveiling a reimagined Windows to the world,” said Pip Marlow, managing director, Microsoft Australia. “Whether you want a tablet or a PC, whether you want to consume or create, whether you want to work or play – Windows 8 delivers a personalised experience that fits your unique style and needs.”
The main new features are:
Metro UI (user interface) – the first thing a user sees on Windows 8 is the tiled interface which give instant access to apps and files. The grid layout is also optimized to work with touchscreen interfaces.. But one thing you won’t be finding is the Start button. That’s one of the changes to menu and navigations features. Don’t worry, users can easily revert to their normal desktop if they want a familiar interface
Charms and Gestures – appears on the right side of the screen to reveal charms which give users access to search, settings, share options and the devices that the computer is connected to. Gesture or mouse from the left side will all the open applications for easier multitasking with the ability to have a second pane – like a messaging app for example – open while you’re working within another app.
Pricing – The Windows 8 Pro upgrade pack is priced at $69.99 with the regular Windows 8 upgrade priced at $39.99. Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012 and January 13, 2013 can download the Windows 8 Pro upgrade for $14.99.
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