P OWERPOINT P ROJECT – WINDOWS 8 JARED DUBAY

Windows 8 is the newest operating system offered by Microsoft. Its current release date is set for October 26 th INTRODUCTION

USER INTERFACE Windows 8’s new format is new and innovative but, can be confusing for most windows users. The new format has removed the start button in the bottom left corner leaving people unaware of where to begin. There will be a learning curve for all new users getting accustomed to the new layout. However, those who are used to Xbox 360 Dashboard/Windows tablet layouts will notice similarities, it uses the same sort of tile layout making Windows 8 extremely tablet/touchscreen friendly.

Windows 8 has incorporated a new way to unlock your screen, not with a password, But with a picture. You choose a personal photo and you click or touch certain areas of the picture in any combination you choose to unlock. (I.e. you touch all the tops of the mountains in a certain order.)

APPLICATIONS Apps have played a major part in Windows 8, in the same way you use applications on your iPod, iPhone, Zune, tablets etc. With Windows 8 comes a built in skydrive application, so as always anywhere you go the cloud comes with you. One of the biggest features behind Windows 8 is connectivity, you’re able to access the Microsoft store and the cloud and your apps all streamlined into groups to fit your personal preferences making work and play both seamless. However, for full usage of all the gadgets and new features you’re required to have a Windows ID account.

INTERFACE DEVICES Windows 8 is supposed to be all about you and how you want to use your computer. You can even take a USB flash drive and save your personal format, which means if you plug your flash drive into another PC loaded with windows 8 you can temporarily change the format to exactly what you’re used to. Windows 8 becomes quite fluid and easy to use once you get into the groove of things. Even the transition between mouse and keyboard to touchscreen is simple and smooth, you treat your mouse cursor the same as if it were your finger instead of sliding a finger you just click and hold.

Windows 8 is still changing because it hasn’t even been officially released yet, but the consumer preview seems relatively promising. The main idea behind the new OS is connectivity and ease of use. Microsoft wants you to be able to share and send anything whether it’s a photo, a website, or an . Undoubtedly there will be more gizmos and gadgets to come before it’s release in the next few days. WINDOWS