Microsoft's release date for its Windows 10 is July 29, Wednesday in the United States in one of the biggest launches in the operating system (OS) giant's history. Windows 8's unveiling was a major disaster due to the Start Menu's absence and many tablet-based designs. The new version will please mouse-and keyboard PC users with the old-school menu's return and the all-new Edge browser, yet still includes various smartphone features.
This new Windows OS incorporates some mobile designs. However, Microsoft will slowly phase them in, seemingly acknowledging that while computing is becoming more on-the-go, there are still tons of desktop and laptop users worldwide.
Therein lies the challenge. Today's consumers want their software to be improved and updated as soon as possible, while the transition of businesses to new tech systems tends to be delayed.
In fact, Microsoft hopes that the new OS will help to rebuild its relationship with the corporate world. When Windows 8 was launched in 2012, many businesses switched to older versions while today employees do more tasks with mobile gadgets, so several companies have not updated Windows, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Case in point: the Start Menu. Its mysterious absence on Windows 8 and replacement with a smart phone-like touchscreen-friendly app grid made many users irate.
Windows 10 includes the same Windows 8 start screen, but the Start Menu is also back. Like the older Windows versions, users can use it to view programs, change settings, and pin stuff to it or the task bar.
Another big plus with the new Windows rendition is that both new and traditional programs can be moved and accessed easily. Windows 8's full-screen apps made multi-tasking harder and slower.
Another wholesale change from Microsoft's new OS is the replacement of Internet Explorer (IE) with a new web browser named Microsoft Edge. It is reportedly cleaner and crisper than IE. A new feature allows users to comment on and share interesting Web pages.
However, Windows 10 also includes some mobile device-centered features. They include the voice assistant Cortana, which provides schedule updates, news, and other important information, according to The Washington Post.
Windows 10 is a major upgrade and improvement from Windows 8 overall. Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella has stressed the fact that the company wants more people to enjoy its products, rather than merely use them. Time will tell if users agree.