Microsoft announces three versions of Windows 8

By M Elahi Apr 19th, 2012 ( 1 Comment )

London: Software giant Microsoft has announced three different editions of its upcoming operating system Windows 8.

Two versions will be designed for x86 processors and one will be aimed at ARM-powered systems. All three will support touch-screen, keyboard and mouse, all general capabilities of Windows and Metro-style apps. The version for ARM will also include touch-optimized versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.

Brandon le Blanc, head of communications at Windows, announced the versions on the official Microsoft blog, and said they have “worked to make it easier for customers to know what edition will work best for them,” The Telegraph reports.

“Windows 8 has all the flexibility you need. You can use a touchscreen or a keyboard and mouse — and switch anytime. Its beautiful, fast and fluid design is perfect for a wide range of hardware,” Blanc added. Windows RT is the first version of Windows designed for tablets.

According to the report, it will come pre-installed on computers and tablets powered by ARM processors and will include a touchscreen-based version of Microsoft Office as standard.

Microsoft Windows 8 will become available later this year, although Microsoft has never officially confirmed this.

Windows 8 will include all the general features of Windows, updated Windows Explorer, Task Manager, better multi-monitor support and the ability to switch languages on the fly (which was previously only available in Enterprise/Ultimate editions of Windows).

Windows 8 Pro is designed for tech enthusiasts and business/technical professionals, it features for encryption, virtualization, PC management and domain connectivity. Windows Media Center will be available as an economical “media pack” add-on to Windows 8 Pro.