Windows 10 is here and Microsoft claims it is the most complete version of its OS ever.
The main talking point of the new software is its ability to run across a range of devices, from PCs to mobiles (and even Microsoft’s next-gen console; the Xbox One), through the use of a single app store.
Oddly, Microsoft chose to skip a digit in its naming process – the previous iteration of the OS is entitled Windows 8. Either it can’t count or it considers this a massive upgrade that warrants double digits.
Design-wise it is a mixture of Windows 7 and 8, the start button that fans of the OS adore is back and so is the touch-screen live tile screen, which had a rather mixed reception in the past. Here, however, the two have been combined within the start menu, where PC and laptop users will now be able to see the constantly updating live tiles.
For Windows tablet users this means that they will still be able to use touch controls. Windows 10 will recognise when a keyboard is attached to a tablet (such as a Microsoft Surface Pro 3) and automatically switch between the touch interface to the desktop.
A new task view button on the traditional toolbar will minimise all ongoing activities into one view on the screen for a different perspective.
Windows smartphones, on the other hand, will have a different UI to the one previewed. Although, Microsoft declined to comment on how it will look, simply stating that it will be an evolutionary update to Windows Phone 8.1.
Another handy feature on the updated OS is the multiple desktop option, which allows users to switch between several desktops running different apps at the touch of a button. Additionally, the search function will now search both your device and the internet.
The event that Microsoft held yesterday to preview Windows 10 wash’t a complete unveiling nor a launch. This hints at its rollout strategy for the OS, as chances are it will move away from previous complete ‘tentpole’ releases to a steady flow of smaller updates in its bid for continuity.
A technical preview of Windows 10 will be released later today to a elect group of users, which should bring with it more hands-on info about the OS. The release date is expected to be around mid-2015.
Check out a video of Microsoft CVP Joe Belfiore using Windows 10 below: