Updated: July 11, 2020 (March 12, 2012)

Windows 8 Consumer Preview Available

Michael analyzed and wrote about Microsoft's operating systems, including the Windows client OS, as well as compliance and governance. Michael... more

A Consumer Preview of the next version of the Windows client OS, Windows 8, for computers with x86- and x64-based processors, was made available in Feb. 2012. The Consumer Preview will allow customers to see the changes being made to the OS and experience the interaction of the new Metro-style, multitouch-enabled user interface with the legacy desktop user interface that was primarily designed for use with a mouse and keyboard. Although the OS is stable, and is as reliable and usable as a traditional beta release, the few Metro-style applications included or downloadable from the Windows Store are less stable.

Consumer or Business Preview

While Steven Sinofsky, president of Windows and Windows Live, introduced the Windows 8 Consumer Preview at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, it was left to Kevin Turner, chief operating officer, to make the case for Windows 8 for businesses at the CeBit conference a few days later.

The new Windows 8 features of most interest to businesses, and that will likely be available on all business versions, include the following:

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