Microsoft has today released a preview of its new Windows 8 software to developers after presenting the new Windows 8 OS at yesterday’s Build Conference. The Windows 8 Developer Preview is a pre-beta version of Windows 8 which has been released by Microsoft specifically for developers.
The Windows 8 Developer Preview requires no activation to run, and some Windows 8 features may require additional hardware or installation of other software. As updates to the software are rolled out by Microsoft, they should automatically be added to your installation. However, Microsoft offers no additional support for this release.
System Requirements and Compatibility
The new Windows 8 OS from Microsoft will support both tablets and traditional PCs. To load the Windows 8 Developer Preview, you will require a PC with at least a 1GHz or faster processor (either 32- or 64-bit), supported by 1GB of RAM (2GB for 64-bit), 16GB of hard disk space (20GB for 64-bit), and DirectX 9 graphics with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver. Alternatively, you can use a touchscreen tablet if you fancy trying out its touch gestures and tablet user interface.
One of the significant changes in Windows 8 is its support for ARM architecture, which is commonly used in tablets and mobile devices. This means that Windows 8 is not just limited to traditional x86 and x64 architectures but can also run on a broader range of devices, making it a versatile operating system for various hardware configurations.
New Features and Enhancements
Windows 8 introduces a new user interface called Metro, which is designed for touchscreens but also works with a mouse and keyboard. The Metro interface features live tiles that provide real-time updates from your apps, such as email notifications, weather updates, and social media alerts. This is a significant departure from the traditional desktop interface, offering a more dynamic and interactive user experience.
Another notable feature is the Windows Store, which allows users to download and install apps directly from a centralized marketplace. This is similar to app stores found on mobile platforms like iOS and Android, making it easier for users to find and install software.
Windows 8 also includes improvements in performance and security. The new OS boasts faster boot times, thanks to a new hybrid boot mode that combines traditional shutdown with hibernation. This results in quicker startup times, allowing users to get to work faster. Additionally, Windows 8 includes enhanced security features such as Secure Boot, which helps protect against malware and unauthorized software during the boot process.
To download a preview copy, head over to the Microsoft Developer Site to download a copy. NOTE: it will not install on existing Windows 7 and will require a clean installation.
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