Microsoft launches Windows 8 trial
Microsoft has publicly unveiled its long awaited update to its Windows operating system, Windows 8, the most radical overhaul of the familiar software since its launch in 1985.
The new look interface has been designed with tablet and mobile computing in mind with touchscreen compatibility built in.
With that in mind two variants of the software will be produced; one which works on desktops and laptops and another for tablets and smartphones.
Both will sport the ‘Metro’ look that defines the new look Windows Phones, utilising a system of tiles to relay live updates to a home screen.
It will entail some radical changes to the familiar layout, not least with the removal of the start button in favour of a ‘hot corner’ and a focus on aesthetics.
Steven Sinofsky, president of Microsoft's Windows division, said: “It's beautiful, it's modern, it's fast, it's fluid. Windows 8 is a generational change in the windows operating system.”
Windows 8 is expected to make its full debut in October 2012.