14 DAY TRIAL // Ladies and gentlemen, the wait is finally over! Microsoft has just presented the new Windows 8 operating system, the one that’s going to change the world, as the company CEO Steve Ballmer said in September.
If you’re a Microsoft fanboy you probably know that Windows 8 is an operating system that steps beyond the desktop computer industry with special version for tablets and mobile phones.
In fact, Windows RT, the company’s operating system designed to run on tablets, is also available on Surface, Microsoft’s first tablet ever. It doesn’t run x86 and x64 apps, but it’s heavily optimized to provide the best touch experience.
Microsoft has already started a preorder program for the new operating system, but Windows 8 is slated to go on sale tomorrow not only via the Microsoft Store, but also at several retailers across the world.
Those who want to buy Windows 8 via the official Microsoft website have to pay $39.99 (€30.8) for a license, but several special offers are already available online.
What’s more, those who have already purchased a computer running Windows 7 will be allowed to make the move to Windows 8 at a very special price of $14.99 (€11.5).
Although it was wildly criticized for dumping traditional Windows elements and relying too much on a brand new design, Windows 8 is expected to sell millions of copies before year-end. Some analysts have criticized it for the GUI, claiming it’s way too confusing for end-users, but Microsoft repeatedly stated that it’s just a matter of time until people get used to it.
Now that Windows 8 is officially out, it remains to be seen how many users would actually make the move to the new OS.
Our readers have expressed mixed opinions on this OS. While some explained that Windows 8 is indeed a user-friendly working environment, others emphasized that it’s indeed confusing, so staying on Windows XP or Windows 7 would be the best idea.
Full coverage of the launch event is available here.