New Windows 8 apps in pictures When it made its debut in October 2009, Windows 7 was available in no fewer than six editions; when Windows 8 arrives this fall, there will be only three available to you. This is part of an effort on Microsoft’s part to get rid of the confusion over which version you should buy and, for a majority of PC users, they’ll simply want the edition called… Windows 8.
Windows 8 will run on the majority of PC and tablet chipsets from Intel and AMD, as will Windows 8 Pro. Both will feature the same core elements, including the revamped Metro interface, but the Pro edition, intended for enthusiasts and business users, will include additional security and networking tools. Also, while the standard edition comes with Windows Media Center for movie and music playback on televisions, it will be an optional purchase for Pro buyers.
The third edition, Windows 8 RT, will include Microsoft Office and come pre-installed on computers and tablets that have ARM chipsets. There are expected to be about five such devices available from various companies at the launch of Windows 8, compared to about 40 computers and tablets that’ll ship with Windows 8 or Windows 8 Pro installed. A fourth and final edition, Windows 8 Enterprise, will only be sold to businesses.
Looking for more info on Windows 8, what it will offer, and how it will compare to Windows 7? Be sure to check out Tecca’s extensive coverage of Microsoft’s newest OS. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can download the Windows 8 Consumer Preview for free and try it for yourself.



