14 DAY TRIAL // End-users did not comprise the only market segment targeted with the release of the new Windows 8 Consumer Preview. In fact, Microsoft also focused on coming up with enhancements for developers to take advantage of as well, so that they could build applications for the upcoming desktop client.
Application developers have already had the possibility to get a taste of what Windows 8 has to offer to them courtesy of the Windows Developer preview that became available for download back in December.
Some of them already had the apps they built for the OS included in the Windows Store that can be accessed from the Consumer Preview today.
Those who haven’t can now head over to the Windows Dev Center to get started. Microsoft is providing them with all of the necessary tools for that.
“The Windows Dev Center provides you with free developer and design tools, code samples, technical docs, and expert help from the community so you can get started on getting your apps out worldwide with the Windows Store,” Kent Walter, Windows Team, notes in a blog post.
“Once you’re running the Consumer Preview, download Visual Studio 11 Express Beta – your free tool to get started building Metro style apps.
“It includes the Windows 8 SDK, Metro style templates and easy access to Windows 8 APIs. Also take a look at the Windows 8 Developer guide for an in-depth look at powerful new options for developers.”
Microsoft also has a series of goodies for IT professionals in store. They can already head over to visit the Springboard Series for Windows 8 on TechNet to learn some more info on the key Enterprise features that Windows 8 will pack.
“Start with Explore Windows 8, your one-page guide to technical overviews and frequently asked questions about AppLocker, BitLocker, Client Hyper-V, DirectAccess, hardware device management, the Windows Store, Windows To Go, and more,” Walter continues.
You can get a taste of the new Windows 8 Consumer Preview through downloading the ISO files that Microsoft made available for download yesterday. They can be found on Softpedia via this link.
The Visual Studio 11 Express Beta can be found on this page.