Updated: July 11, 2020 (June 11, 2012)

Windows Release Previews Signal Final Development

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

The final development phase for the next versions of the Windows client and server OSs began in May 2012 with the availability of the Windows 8 Release Preview and the Windows Server 2012 Release Candidate. It is anticipated that these new Windows editions will release to manufacturing (RTM) within the next two to three months. Although Windows 8 has the most visible changes, due to the addition of the Metro user interface, the Start page, and support for Metro-style applications, Windows Server 2012 contains significant improvements, so organizations may want to begin evaluation of Windows Server 2012 first.

Windows 8 Release Preview

The Windows 8 Release Preview, which traditionally would have been called a release candidate, is available in 14 languages for computers with the AMD and Intel x86 and x64 processors. Changes since the Consumer Preview (Feb. 2012) include improved Metro-style news and sports apps; changes to the Metro-style Mail, Photos, and People applications; and improved multimonitor support.

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now