Updated: July 9, 2020 (February 25, 2013)
Analyst ReportWindows 8 Packaging Details Emerge
The next version of the Windows client OS will deliver two editions, Windows 8 Pro and Windows 8 Enterprise, for companies deploying x86- and x64-based computers. Windows 8 will also appear in a separate OS variant for ARM-based devices, and a single edition will serve consumers in most countries. For companies, the planned lineup makes key features such as multilanguage deployment and full-disk encryption simpler to license, but there will still be trade-offs among licensing costs, features, and hardware requirements, and pricing remains unknown.
Windows 8 Editions
Windows 8, which is now the official name—rather than merely a code name—for the next version of the Windows client OS, will be generally available in three user-installable editions for AMD or Intel x86- or x64-based processors:
- Windows 8 Pro, which replaces Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate editions, and is intended for businesses and “tech enthusiasts”
- Windows 8 Enterprise, which replaces Windows 7 Enterprise; it
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