Microsoft are performing a roll-out launch for their new OS Windows 10 today. Don’t worry though, if you haven’t received your email with download instructions for Windows 10 just yet don’t be too concerned. Chances are you’ll be getting one soon as Microsoft have said they are rolling out Windows 10 in stages.
If you haven’t taken action yet and reserved your copy of Windows 10 do so now with this Windows 10 Upgrade article from Microsoft. It’s currently free for the first year for all existing Windows 7 and up users so you should really get on this as soon as possible before it becomes a paid service. After your first year (or if you don’t currently qualify) you’ll be forking out an annual subscription of $119 to avail of the new Operating System.
What’s new with Windows 10?
For a long time now, Microsoft have been playing catch-up with Apple in terms of device connectivity. The goal with Windows 10 is to finally bridge this gap and allow users to create, share, develop and discover content across multiple platforms without any disruption in service. Key to this is returning to some old design philosophies. So your start menu is back to where it used to be in Windows XP and 7 – with an expanded feature to engage in more content. This is a much appreciated and welcomed return.
An all new browser comes freshly baked with Windows 10: Microsoft Edge allows for more in-depth interactivity with web pages that we’ve not yet seen before. Write or type notes on any web page and share them with others or come back to it later to revise your thoughts. Microsoft have long been playing catch-up with their Internet Explorer browser so it will be interesting to see what they’ve come up with to help alleviate some of the stigma attached with their previous efforts.
A larger emphasis is also being placed on apps and easily accessing them on your device. A new snap feature allows you to run apps simultaneously and manage content in a more intuitive manner. Something Microsoft have commented on from it’s Xbox development. Snapping content is a lot of fun, trust me. Speaking of content, the new Windows Store offers users all the content they need. From films, music, tv and apps – all your purchased content is connectable across all your devices using Windows 10.
Influences from the Web
Responsive web design is something you may not have heard of before. What it references is your web content, and it’s relation to the device your viewing that content on. Gone is the day when everyone consumes content from the ‘Home Computer’ – nowadays you have all kinds of devices at your disposal. From mobile phones, tablets and laptops to games consoles and now, even watches (thanks for that one Apple). Responsive web design is the ability for content to dynamically represent itself across all platforms, both large and small.
Microsoft have recongnised this is paramount to user engagement and with Windows 10 your apps will look and work great in all modes, on all devices. On 2-in-1 devices, your screen can be optimised to work with touch or keyboard and mouse. Responsive desktop content for the modern age. Allowing for more organic and flexible use of content on your Windows 10 device.
Cortana
Cortana is for all intents and purposes Microsofts version of Siri. Except for a few users out there the name already bares character and history beyond that of a new voice recognition software program. But that’s neither here ‘nor there (but… if you are interested )
Cortana, in much the same way as Siri is there to assist you and help make your experience with Windows 10 a more enjoyable one. From setting reminders, answering topical questions (what’s the forecast today Cortana?) and searching for content on the web, all in natural conversation without the need for specific command lines and adjusted ‘tone’.
There is a lot to look forward to with Windows 10, so stay with us here at Opus Creative where I’ll be posting updates on our experience with the product and giving some feedback and useful info the community runs into a long the way.
