Microsoft has launched Windows 8, designed to run on PCs, tablets and smartphones, as the software giant looks to take on Apple and Google in the lucrative mobile operating system market.
The new operating system, still the most widely used in the world, signals the biggest change at Microsoft since the emergence of Windows 95.
About half of business users still have not upgraded to Windows 7 from Windows XP, which came out in 2001. XP also marked the last time Microsoft had a huge launch campaign for Windows.
Releases of Windows Vista and 7 since then have been more subdued.
At the same time as launching the new Windows operating system, Microsoft is also introducing its Surface tablet – its first venture into making computer devices.
That goes on sale on Friday, along with computers and other tablets running Windows 8.
Windows 8 will be available for download to upgrade existing PCs in over 140 markets and 37 languages at windowsupgradeoffer.com, and at retail locations around the world including PC World, John Lewis and other computer retailers.
“With the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft is unveiling a reimagined Windows to the world,” said Jean-Pierre Van Tiel, UK Director of Windows, Microsoft. “Whether you want a tablet or a PC, whether you want to consume or create, whether you want to work or play – Windows 8 delivers a personalized experience that fits your unique style and needs.”
Windows 8 will be available in two versions at retail, Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro. It features the new Start screen that gives people one-click access to the apps and content they care most about, the entirely new Internet Explorer 10 that is perfect for touch, and built-in cloud capabilities with SkyDrive.
Microsoft’s launch comes amid a slew of other tablet offerings, with Apple unveiling its iPad Mini with a 7.9in (20cm) screen on Tuesday.
Amazon and Barnes & Noble, makers of the 7in (17.7cm) Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet, are coming out with larger versions next month.
“I think Windows 8 is a great operating system for the tablet,” hedge fund analyst Steve Mackay told Sky News at the Microsoft launch.
“I think it’s going to be better than Android. I think Apple is still going to sell the lion’s share, but I think (Microsoft) has a real chance of being a legitimate player in the tablet market.”
One factor that might dampen enthusiasm for the Surface is its price – $599 (£372) with its touch keyboard cover – and its availability for purchase only from a limited number of Microsoft stores and online, said analyst Kirk Adams.
He said consumers may be reluctant to buy the device until they can try it in person.
Meanwhile, most analysts believe companies and governments will hold off on upgrading to Windows 8 for at least another year.
Watch a news report from ITN covering the Windows 8 launch below:
www.windowsupgradeoffer.com.
