Windows 8 Editions and Features

Windows 8 will be available in three new editions for x86- and x64-based devices and one new family member for ARM-based devices. There will also be a specialized edition of Windows for emerging markets, and Windows Media Center technologies have been moved to an add-in pack usable with Windows 8 Pro. Features in gray boxes are existing Windows features; features in white boxes are new or significantly changed for Windows 8.

All editions of Windows 8 and Windows RT will feature the new Metro user interface (UI) and run Metro-style applications available from the Windows Store. Other features, such as Windows Defender, which protects against malware; Secure Boot; Connected Standby; and the ability to switch languages on the fly via the Multilanguage User Interface (MUI), a feature that is included in the Windows 7 Enterprise and Ultimate editions, will now be available in all editions including Windows RT.

Three editions run on existing x86- and x64-based devices: Windows 8, which targets consumers; Windows 8 Pro, which targets tech enthusiasts and businesses; and Windows 8 Enterprise, which is available to customers with Software Assurance and adds additional business-oriented features.