14 DAY TRIAL // While Metro UI elements have already been highlighted in previous Windows 8 leaks, ahead of Build 6.2.7955.0, new details reveal just how deep Windows vNext will integrate the graphical user interface introduced in Windows Phone 7. Windows 8 Build 6.2.7955.0, Milestone 2 (M2) or pre-Milestone 3 (M3), has been leaked in the wild at the end of the past week, with testers immediately jumping on the unofficial release.
The volume of leaked details on Windows 8 Build 6.2.7955.0 has been increasing steadily, as hidden features and components were uncovered in this particular development milestone.
It appears that Windows 8’s evolution involves transformations designed to tailor the platform to next generation NUI devices, such as slates and Tablet PCs.
Considering the information available on the successor of Windows 7 so far, it’s clear that the Redmond company had found more than a little bit of inspiration in the Metro UI.
The combination between the natural user interface and the GUI will permit Windows 8 customers to use multi-touch in order to interact with devices that are missing analog input peripherals such as keyboards and mice.
For a taste of the NUI experience in Windows 8 you can check out the screenshots included at the bottom of this article and the video embedded below, courtesy of WinFuture and WinBeta.
A mouse is still used in the video, but it should be obvious to anyone watching the material that the new settings menu in Windows 8, with the Metro UI on top, is designed for touch.
Since Microsoft is not confirming any details about Windows 8 it’s hard to be completely sure of the role that Metro UI will play for the platform.
Personally, I see the Metro UI available on the Windows 8 flavor designed for slates, but also for additional next generation form factors that rely on NUI capabilities to facilitate human-computer interaction.
