Anyone who wondered what Microsoft’s new Windows 8 operating system would look like on the original touchscreen Surface devices released by Microsoft long before their tablet devices were announced, will be interested in the video after the break.
Microsoft’s original Surface touchscreen devices were a massive 40-inch display running a bespoke version of Windows 7. These devices, often referred to as Surface tables or Surface coffee tables, were primarily used in commercial settings such as hotels, retail stores, and restaurants for interactive displays and customer engagement. Now, YouTube user “slymick” has loaded Windows 8 onto an old-style Surface and created a quick demonstration video showing it in action. Check it out after the break.
Windows 8 on a 40-Inch Surface Display
The Windows 8 operating system is running smoothly on Slymick’s 40-inch Surface coffee table system and shows what can be achieved with the touch gestures included in the new Windows 8 operating system that officially launched on October 26th, 2012. The video demonstrates how the modern UI, formerly known as Metro, adapts to a larger touchscreen interface. The live tiles, which are a hallmark of Windows 8, provide real-time updates and are easily navigable on the large display.
The touch gestures, such as swiping from the edges to bring up the Charms bar or switching between apps, are fluid and responsive. This showcases the versatility of Windows 8, which was designed to work seamlessly across a variety of devices, from tablets and laptops to large touchscreen displays like the original Surface.
Implications and Future Possibilities
The successful implementation of Windows 8 on a 40-inch Surface table opens up numerous possibilities for both commercial and personal use. In commercial settings, businesses could leverage the interactive capabilities of such large displays for enhanced customer experiences. For instance, retail stores could use them for interactive catalogs, allowing customers to browse products in a more engaging manner. Restaurants could use them for digital menus and ordering systems, providing a modern and efficient dining experience.
For personal use, these large touchscreen tables could serve as the centerpiece of a smart home, integrating with other smart devices and providing a hub for controlling home automation systems. Imagine using a 40-inch touchscreen to control your lighting, heating, and security systems, all from a single interface.
Moreover, the adaptability of Windows 8 to different hardware configurations highlights Microsoft’s vision of a unified operating system that can cater to a wide range of devices. This vision has continued to evolve with subsequent versions of Windows, aiming to provide a consistent user experience across desktops, laptops, tablets, and even IoT devices.
Source: Gizmodo
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