Windows 8 Previewed At D9 330
theodp writes "Mum's still the word on a shipping date for its new OS for laptops, desktops, and tablets ('touch slates' in MS-speak), but Microsoft on Wednesday gave the world a first look at the touch-friendly 'Windows 8' user interface, which sports a live tile-based Start screen reminiscent of the company's Windows Phone 7 interface. Also prominent in the demo was a large 'Store' tile, suggesting that Microsoft plans to offer Windows apps through a marketplace. A Microsoft video offers an overview of the interface, showcasing Win 8's multi-tasking capabilities and some other interesting features, including a virtual keyboard that can be switched from full-screen to a more ergonomic split-screen thumbs layout."
Re:I lost count... (Score:5, Informative)
According to an update in TFA, that WP7-like tile interface is non-optional.
So I think we should rejoice, because if it continues to be non-optional, it will effectively kill Windows on the Desktop in favour of systems that actually allow their users to, you know, *do* stuff with their computer.
keep reading
. As shown in the Microsoft video below, users will be able to switch to a more traditional Windows desktop,
Re:I lost count... (Score:3, Informative)
No it's not, that's the default interface at bootup for a TABLET. On a desktop or laptop, you'll get the standard interface unless you configure the OS otherwise. It's just like using Windows Media Center on Windows 7.