Microsoft announces global availability of Windows 8

Microsoft Corp today announced the global availability of its latest Windows operating system, Windows 8. From Friday, October 26, consumers and businesses worldwide will be able to experience all that Windows 8 has to offer. This includes a new user interface and a range of applications. Also announced was the opening of the Windows Store. As a result of work with hardware partners, more than 1,000 certified PCs and tablets, including Microsoft Surface, will be available for the launch of Windows 8 — making it the best lineup of PCs ever across the Windows 8 and Windows RT ecosystem.

“We have reimagined Windows and the result is a stunning lineup of new PCs,” said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. “Windows 8 brings together the best of the PC and the tablet. It works perfect for work and play and it is alive with your world. Every one of our customers will find a PC that they will absolutely love.”

All new features

Windows 8 will be available for download to upgrade existing PCs in more than 140 markets and 37 languages here beginning at 12:01 a.m. local time, and at retail locations around the world. At retail stores, Windows 8 will be available in two primary versions — Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro, as well as Windows 8 Enterprise for large organisations. Launched at the same time was a new member of the Windows family, Windows RT, which is designed for ARM-based tablets and is pre-installed on new devices. In addition to Microsoft Office 2013, Windows RT is designed exclusively for apps in the new Windows Store. Windows 8 features the new Start screen that gives people one-click access to the apps and content they use the most. It also features an entirely new Internet Explorer 10 that is designed for touch and built-in cloud capabilities with SkyDrive.

Windows 8 can be purchased in a variety of ways from the world’s leading retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy and Staples in the US, Casas Bahia in Brazil, Future Shop and Staples in Canada, Suning in China, Media Markt across Europe, FNAC in France, Yamada in Japan, Telmex in Mexico, Dixons in the UK, and many more stores, which will have a variety of offers for customers looking for great deals on Windows 8 PCs, devices and software. Consumers can learb here about the large array of Windows 8 devices available and find the one that best fits their needs. More information on the great offers around the world is available here.

The joy of computing

In addition to the range of new Windows-based devices available, customers can also upgrade their existing PCs. Till the end of January, customers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 are qualified to download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$39.99 (approximately Rs 2,150). And eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013, in more than 140 markets can download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$14.99 (approximately Rs 800) with the Windows Upgrade Offer, available here.