Microsoft has finally shed some light on the different versions of Windows 8 we’ll see upon release and, thankfully, things are much simpler than past versions.
This time around, there are only three flavours Microsoft is pushing heavily: Windows 8, the version geared towards most consumers; Windows 8 Pro, for enterprise and enthusiast users; and Windows RT, which is the new name for Windows on low-power ARM processors (previously called WOA).
And fret not, IT workers. Microsoft says another version of the software, Windows 8 Enterprise, will be available to organisations with software assurance agreements. It’s basically an offshoot of Windows 8 Pro, since it contains all of the features of that version plus an increased IT-management feature.
Notably, Windows RT will only be available pre-installed on ARM-powered devices such as tablets and ultraportable laptops, so you’ll only have to worry about the other two versions of Windows 8 when deciding to upgrade your current computer. (For Media Center fans, Microsoft says it will be available as an “economical add-on pack” for Windows 8 Pro.)
The standard version of Windows 8 will include all of the great features we’ve already seen in the operating system, including the new tablet-friendly Metro interface, updated Windows Explorer and support for new Metro apps. Windows 8 Pro will add encryption, virtualisation, PC management and domain-connection features, according Windows communication manager Brandon LeBlanc.
Windows RT will include touch-optimised Office apps. Explaining the Windows RT name, LeBlanc said the focus of the operating system is on the new Windows runtime, which “forms the foundation of a new generation of cloud-enabled, touch-enabled, Web-connected apps of all kinds”. — VentureBeat