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Today at keynote for Microsoft's Build conference for software developers, the company took the wraps off its next-generation operating system, Windows 8, expected to land on consumer computing devices next year. Beyond the details only a software developer would love, one thing was clear: Microsoft is out to change users' perception that Windows is just software for desktop and laptop computers.
The company says it is "re-imagining Windows," and began by demonstrating Windows 8's user interface (UI). The new UI, called Metro, is "built for touch," says Microsoft. The home screen looks much like a Windows Phone 7 touch screen, with tiles that represent apps, people, and so on.
Another new twist: Windows 8 promises to feature improved ties to "cloud-based" services and features such as SkyDrive. Although demonstrations of Microsoft's online storage system didn't go perfectly, developers say the cloud drive system would allow Windows 8 users to seamlessly share files with mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones featuring Windows Phone 7 operating system.
(The Los Angeles Times offers a short video of Windows 8 on a tablet computer still under development.)
Microsoft's Windows 8 unveiling today is meant to draw software designers and coders to begin developing applications—"apps," really—for the new operating system.
Microsoft Reimagines Windows, Presents Windows 8 Developer Preview [Microsoft press release]
Windows 8: A first look at Microsoft's new operating system [Video] [Los Angeles Times]
Microsoft's Build keynote: 5 key takeaways [CNet]
Microsoft Unveils Windows 8, Targets Apple's iPad [Fox News]
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