Yesterday, Microsoft released the successor to its highly-criticized Windows 8. While the program was officially only known as Threshold, most people had resorted to calling it the likeliest of titles: Windows 9. However, Microsoft decided to surprise us all by instead calling it Windows 10. Here are some of the things we can expect when Windows 10 is released next summer:
The Start Menu - One of the biggest complaints about Windows 8 was the lack of a start menu. The start menu returns in Windows 10. The left side of the start menu will contain the traditional Windows 7 app list, and the right side will contain a live tile section similar to the Windows 8 start screen. The start menu also brings back the search bar, and internet search results will show up alongside file and application results.
Metro/Desktop Interface - One of the big problems with Windows 8 was the difference in the way that the touch-optimized Metro app interface worked compared to the traditional desktop interface. Microsoft has allowed its Metro apps to run in standard desktop windows that can be resized and moved, and the interface will adjust based on the device.
Working with Windows - A new button on the desktop allows you to quickly view and switch between all your open apps. You are also able to snap up to four windows on your screen, and Windows will suggest apps to fill open space. Finally, you will have the option to create multiple desktops, allowing you to have one for work and one for home, or any other way you decide to split them.
Cortana - Microsoft's answer to Siri is expected to make its way into the desktop version of Windows 10. While Cortana was not demonstrated at yesterday's event and will not appear in the preview released today, we should expect Cortana to be in the final release next year.
User Feedback - Today, Microsoft will release the first public build of Windows 10 through its Windows Insider program. It appears Microsoft is working to keep in touch with its users during the development process in order to implement feedback into the final product.
Should you go download the Windows 10 preview today? Only if you plan to install it on an unused computer or a virtual machine. (If you don't know how to do either of these, then it probably isn't for you.) This is NOT a working version of Windows; it is a version that will have some bugs and security holes. It is designed primarily for testing and application development, not for use as your primary operating system.
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