When Microsoft showed off Windows 10 recently, the company said that Windows 10 would also be headed to the Surface RT. This announcement generated a lot of excitement among Surface RT users who were eager to see the new features and improvements that Windows 10 would bring to their devices.
However, according to Paul Thurrot, Microsoft will not be bringing the full Windows 10 to the Surface RT. Instead, the device will get some of its features, which has led to mixed reactions from the user community.
During the Q&A portion of yesterday’s Windows 10 event, I asked Microsoft whether Windows RT would be upgraded to Windows 10. Apparently I misunderstood the answer as Microsoft this morning confirmed that Windows RT will not be upgraded to Windows 10. Instead, the ARM-based version of Windows will get an upgrade that provides only some of the functionality of Windows 10.
And with this single statement, I think we can declare that Microsoft’s Windows RT experiment is officially dead.
The Demise of Windows RT
Windows RT was initially launched with much fanfare as a version of Windows designed to run on ARM-based processors, which are commonly found in mobile devices. The idea was to offer a lightweight, power-efficient version of Windows that could compete with iOS and Android in the tablet market. However, Windows RT faced several challenges from the outset. One of the main issues was its inability to run traditional desktop applications, which limited its appeal to consumers and businesses alike.
The Surface RT, which was one of the flagship devices running Windows RT, struggled to gain traction in the market. Users were frustrated by the limited app ecosystem and the lack of compatibility with existing Windows software. Despite these challenges, Microsoft continued to support Windows RT with updates and new features, but it never managed to overcome its initial shortcomings.
What Features Will Surface RT Receive?
So it looks like the Surface RT will get a different update than other devices like the Surface Pro 3 and other tablets in the Surface range. As yet, there are no details on what specific features the device will get. However, it is expected that the update will include some of the user interface improvements and security enhancements that are part of Windows 10.
For example, the Start Menu, which was reintroduced in Windows 10, might make its way to the Surface RT. This would be a welcome change for users who missed the traditional Start Menu in Windows 8 and Windows RT. Additionally, some of the new multitasking features, such as Task View and virtual desktops, could also be included in the update, providing users with more flexibility and productivity options.
Another potential feature that could be part of the update is the improved Action Center, which consolidates notifications and quick settings in one place. This would make it easier for Surface RT users to manage their notifications and access frequently used settings.
Despite these potential improvements, the fact that Surface RT will not receive the full Windows 10 experience is a disappointment for many users. It also raises questions about the future of ARM-based Windows devices and whether Microsoft will continue to invest in this platform.
In conclusion, while the Surface RT will receive some of the features of Windows 10, it is clear that Microsoft is shifting its focus away from Windows RT. This decision marks the end of an era for the ARM-based version of Windows and highlights the challenges that Microsoft faced in trying to compete with established mobile operating systems. As the company moves forward, it will be interesting to see how it adapts its strategy to better meet the needs of users in an increasingly mobile-centric world.
Source Engadget
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