Microsoft has released the final test version of its next-generation Windows software, crafted to power devices ranging from tablets to desktop computers.
"We're thrilled to be at this milestone with the Windows 8 Release Preview," said Windows and Windows Live division president Steven Sinofsky.
The nearly finished Windows 8 software is available for download in 14 languages at Microsoft's website.
Availability of Windows 8 Release Preview marks the final phase of development before the operating system becomes available to makers of computers and other devices.
We've taken a look at the new features in the Windows 8 preview.
-
(Screenshot by Seth Rosenblatt/CNET)
The Start screen doesn't look like it's changed much, but there are three new default apps that show off the possibilities of Windows 8: Travel, News, and Sports.
-
(Screenshot by Seth Rosenblatt/CNET)
Microsoft has recently has promised that Adobe's Flash plug-in will work in Internet Explorer 10 Metro by the time Windows 8 is finished, but it wasn't ready when we used it.
-
(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)
Windows 8 Release Preview prototype laptop comes with protoype trackpad drivers to which will allow people to use its multi-touch gestures feature on their trackpads. It's a big, long-overdue step forward for Windows.
-
(Screenshot by Seth Rosenblatt/CNET)
In the new Sports app, semantic zoom powers different layers of content. Zoom out from the main view of your favourite teams to see different categories that you can then zoom back in on.
-
(Screenshot by Seth Rosenblatt/CNET)
We know that Microsoft plans on ditching the translucent Aero borders for Windows 8 Desktop mode, but that hasn't happened yet. The company hasn't said what will replace it., yet.
-
(Screenshot by Seth Rosenblatt/CNET)
Splitting the screen for the ability to be working in two apps at once isn't new to Windows 8 Release Preview, but it works much better than before. You can also see the new Mail app layout here.
AAP contributed to this article.
Via CNET
Add Your Comment 1