Currently in development, Microsoft 8 has big plans to jump head-first into the touchscreen market. As consumers are growing more used to the idea of touching their screens, this was a logical move for a company trying to compete with Apple’s iPad 2. Here are some of the big changes we can expect with Windows 8:

Metro Inferface: The software not only has a new literal “feel,” but it also boasts a completely redesigned look. The most important thing to note about Metro is how it is extremely different from anything Windows in the past.

Rather than application icons, the user will see boxes (above), grouped by the user. These boxes can be increased or decreased in size, and also moved according to preference.

While the redesign looks great, the functionality will have to be thoroughly tested when it is released, as new Windows software has been known to have issues after release. While Windows 7 was a well-suited upgrade from Vista, it will surely face challenges regardless of innovation.

Legacy Support for Windows in Traditional Version: Windows 8 will support much of the hardware that Windows 7 currently supports, making the transition easier for users.

One of the focuses of this release was to create support for and give more power to its devices. For example, printing should be as easy as connecting headsets and other hardware using Bluetooth technology.

Security: While still in development, Microsoft plans to have more control over their app store than Google’s Android Market.

The Internet Explorer 9 web browser will also have updated security features, with expanded blocking of malware and malicious sites, as well as phishing.

We’re going to have to wait for the release to give you a more comprehensive review of Windows 8, but for now, we’re excited about what we see. Microsoft has not announced an official release date yet.

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In the meantime, be sure to keep your Microsoft up to date by following directions in the September Security Bulletin release today.

If you have any questions about the update, or need assistance, call us at (877) MAKEITWork or (877) 625-3489.

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