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Windows 8 is good if you have good computer and don't download alot of stuff but if u don't have a good computer and have to download alot of stuff I personally don't recommend it but you might want to get windows 8.1.
{{Use American English|date=November 2012}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2016}}
{{Infobox OS version
| name = Windows 8
| version of = ]
| logo = Windows 8 logo and wordmark.svg
| screenshot = Windows 8 Start Screen.png
| caption = Windows 8 ]
| developer = Microsoft
| website = {{URL|windows.microsoft.com}}
| source_model = ] and ]<ref>{{cite web|title=Shared Source Initiative|url=http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sharedsource/default.aspx|work=microsoft.com|publisher=]|accessdate=October 28, 2013}}</ref>
| license = ], ], ], ]
| supported_platforms = ], ], ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2011/jan11/01-05SOCsupport.mspx|title=Microsoft Announces Support of System on a Chip Architectures From Intel, AMD, and ARM for Next Version of Windows|date=January 5, 2011|publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=October 14, 2011}}</ref>
| kernel_type = ]
| updatemodel = ], ]
| first_release_date = {{start date and age|2012|8|1}}<ref>. August 1, 2012</ref>
| first_release_url =
| GA_date = {{start date and age|2012|10|26}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/10/25/windows-reimagined-windows8.aspx|title=Windows reimagined. #Windows8|work=Blogging Windows}}</ref>
| GA_url =
| release_version =
| release_date =
| release_url =
| preview_version =
| preview_url =
| preceded_by = ] (2009)
| succeeded_by = ] (2013)
| support_status = Support ended on January 12, 2016; must install ] in order to continue receiving updates and support.<ref name=maximumpc-81support>{{cite web|title=Microsoft Support Lifecycle, Windows 8|url=http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?c2=16796|work=Microsoft|accessdate=January 8, 2014}}</ref>
}}
{{Windows 8}}
'''Windows 8''' is a ] ] developed by ] as part of the ] family of operating systems. Development of Windows 8 started before the release of its predecessor, ], in 2009. It was announced at ] 2011, and followed by the release of three ] versions from September 2011 to May 2012. The operating system was ] on August 1, 2012, and was released for ] on October 26, 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/windows-8s-delivery-date-october-26-7000001158/|title=Windows 8's delivery date: October 26 |work=] |publisher=]|date=July 18, 2012|accessdate=September 17, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 introduced major changes to the operating system's platform and ] to improve its user experience on ], where Windows was now competing with ]s, including ] and ].<ref name=asd-win8ad/> In particular, these changes included a touch-optimized ] based on Microsoft's ] ], the ] (which displays programs and dynamically updated content on a grid of tiles), a new platform for developing ] with an emphasis on ] input, integration with online services (including the ability to sync apps and settings between devices), and ], an online store for downloading and purchasing new software. Windows 8 added support for ], ] hard drives, ]s, and ]. Additional security features were introduced, such as built-in ], integration with ] ] service and support for ] on supported devices with ], to prevent ] from infecting the boot process.

Windows 8 was released to a mixed critical reception. Although reaction towards its performance improvements, security enhancements, and improved support for touchscreen devices was positive, the new user interface of the operating system was widely criticized for being potentially confusing and difficult to learn (especially when used with a keyboard and mouse instead of a touchscreen). Despite these shortcomings, 60 million Windows 8 licenses have been sold through January 2013, a number which included both upgrades and sales to ]s for new PCs.<ref>{{cite web|last=Foley |first=Mary Jo |url=http://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-60-million-windows-8-licenses-sold-to-date-7000009549/ |title=Microsoft: 60 million Windows 8 licenses sold to date |work=] |publisher=] |date=January 8, 2013 |accessdate=March 24, 2013}}</ref>

On October 17, 2013, Microsoft released ]. It addresses some aspects of Windows 8 that were criticized by reviewers and ]s and incorporates additional improvements to various aspects of the operating system.<ref name="FT_7-5-13">{{cite web |url=http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/330c8b8e-b66b-11e2-93ba-00144feabdc0.html|title=Microsoft prepares rethink on Windows 8 flagship software |first=Richard |last=Waters |work=] |date=May 7, 2013 }}</ref><ref name="verge-81handson"/> Windows 8 was ultimately succeeded by ] in July 2015. Support for Windows 8 RTM ended on January 12, 2016; per Microsoft lifecycle policies regarding ]s, Windows 8.1 must be installed to maintain support and receive further updates.

==Development history==

===Early development===
Windows 8 development started before ] had shipped in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|title=Steven Sinofsky, Tami Reller, Julie Larson-Green, Antoine Leblond, and Michael Angiulo: Windows 8 Consumer Preview |work=News Center |publisher=Microsoft |url=http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/exec/ssinofsky/2012/02-29Windows8.aspx |accessdate=April 27, 2012 |date=February 29, 2012}}</ref> At the ] in January 2011, it was announced that the next version of Windows would add support for ] ]s alongside the existing ] processors produced by vendors, especially ] and ]. Windows division president ] demonstrated an early build of the port on prototype devices, while Microsoft CEO ] announced the company's goal for Windows to be "everywhere on every kind of device without compromise."<ref name=engadget-armbuild>{{cite web|title=Microsoft confirms ARM support is coming in Windows, will play nice with SoCs too|url=http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/microsoft-confirms-arm-support-is-coming-in-windows-will-play-n/|publisher=Engadget|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-cesunveil>{{cite web|title=CES: Windows to run on ARM chips, says Microsoft|url=http://www.zdnet.com/ces-windows-to-run-on-arm-chips-says-microsoft-3040091325/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=November 21, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2011/jan11/01-05SOCsupport.mspx |title=Microsoft Announces Support of System on a Chip Architectures From Intel, AMD, and ARM for Next Version of Windows |publisher=Microsoft |date=January 5, 2011 |accessdate=January 5, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first=Matt |last=Rosoff |url=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/01/05/businessinsider-microsoft-spills-beans-on--at-ces-2011-1.DTL |title=OK, So Windows 8 Is Coming To ARM Tablets...someday. (MSFT) |work=] |agency=Business Insider |publisher=Hearst Communications |date=January 5, 2011 |accessdate=January 5, 2011}}</ref> Details also began to surface about a new application framework for Windows 8 codenamed "Jupiter", which would be used to make "immersive" applications using ] (similarly to ] and ]) that could be distributed via a new packaging system and a rumored ].<ref name=zdn-jupiter>{{cite web|title=More on Microsoft 'Jupiter' and what it means for Windows 8|url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/more-on-microsoft-jupiter-and-what-it-means-for-windows-8/8373|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=March 30, 2013}}</ref>

Three ] of Windows 8 ] to the general public. Milestone 1, Build 7850, was leaked on April 12, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-build-7850-has-leaked|title=Windows 8 Build 7850 has leaked|date=April 12, 2012|accessdate=December 28, 2012|first=Brad |last=Sams|work=]}}</ref> It was the first build where the text of a window was written centered instead of aligned to the left. It was also probably the first appearance of the Metro-style font, and its wallpaper had the text ''shhh... let's not leak our hard work''. However, its detailed build number reveals that the build was created on September 22, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.redmondpie.com/windows-8-build-7850-m1-leaked-download/|title=Windows 8 Build 7850 M1 Has Been Leaked|date=April 12, 2011|accessdate=December 28, 2012|work=Redmond Pie|first=Taimur |last=Asad}}</ref> The leaked copy edition was Enterprise edition. The OS still reads as "Windows 7". Milestone 2, Build 7955, was leaked on April 25, 2011. The traditional ] (BSoD) was replaced by a new ''Black'' screen, although this was later scrapped.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/hardware/windows-8-build-7955-sporting-new-black-screen-of-death/12529|title=Windows 8 build 7955 sporting new 'Black' Screen of Death|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=December 28, 2012|first=Adrian|last=Kingsley-Hughes|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> This build introduced a new ] in Windows Explorer. Build 7959, with minor changes but the first 64-bit version, was leaked on May 1, 2011. The "Windows 7" logo was temporarily replaced with text displaying "Microsoft Confidential". On June 17, 2011, build 7989 64-bit edition was leaked. It introduced a new boot screen featuring the same fish as the default Windows 7 Beta wallpaper, which was later scrapped, and the circling dots as featured in the final (although the final version comes with smaller circling dots throbber). It also had the text ''Welcome'' below them, although this was also scrapped.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.winrumors.com/windows-8-milestone-3-build-7989-leaks/|title=Windows 8 Milestone 3 build 7989 leaks|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=December 28, 2012|first=Tom|last=Warren|work=Winrumors}}</ref>

On June 1, 2011, Microsoft unveiled Windows 8's new user interface as well as additional features at both ] and the ] conference in California.<ref>{{cite web |title=Live from Microsoft's Windows 8 preview event at Computex 2011. |url=http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/live-from-microsofts-windows-8-preview-event-at-computex-2011/|work=Engadget|publisher=]|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=February 28, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Previewing 'Windows 8' |url=http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2011/jun11/06-01corporatenews.aspx|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|date=June 1, 2011|accessdate=February 28, 2012}}</ref>

The "Building Windows 8" blog launched on August 15, 2011, featuring details surrounding Windows 8's features and its development process.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sinofsky |first=Steven |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/15/welcome-to-building-windows-8.aspx |title=Welcome to Building Windows 8 Blogs |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=August 15, 2011 |accessdate=September 8, 2011}}</ref>

===Previews===
]
Microsoft unveiled more Windows 8 features and improvements on the first day of the ] on September 13, 2011.<ref name="W8PreviewGuide">{{cite web|url=http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/E/4/1E455D53-C382-4A39-BA73-55413F183333/Windows_Developer_Preview-Windows8_guide.pdf |title=Windows 8 Developer Preview Guide|accessdate=September 16, 2011|publisher=Microsoft Corporation}}</ref> Microsoft released the first public beta build of Windows 8, Windows Developer Preview (build 8102) at the event. A ] tablet running the build was also distributed to conference attendees.

The build was released for download later in the day in standard 32-bit and 64-bit versions, plus a special 64-bit version which included SDKs and developer tools (] and ]) for developing Metro-style apps.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.buildwindows.com/|title=Home—BUILD|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate = February 29, 2012}}</ref> The Windows Store was announced during the presentation, but was not available in this build.<ref name=pcw-wdptonight>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 Developer Preview Available Tonight|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2392860,00.asp|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=May 29, 2013}}</ref><ref name=timn-8dprelease>{{cite web|title=Microsoft releases Windows 8 Developer Preview, announces Windows Store (update: it's out early!)|url=http://www.theverge.com/2011/09/13/microsoft-releases-windows-8-developers-preview-announces-windows-store/|work=]|accessdate=May 29, 2013}}</ref> According to Microsoft, there were about 535,000 downloads of the developer preview within the first 12 hours of its release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/steve-ballmer-touts-500-000-windows-8-downloads-in-less-than-12/ |title=Steve Ballmer touts 500,000 Windows 8 downloads in less than 12 hours. |work=] |publisher=AOL |date= |accessdate=September 16, 2011}}</ref> Originally set to expire on March 11, 2012, in February 2012 the Developer Preview's expiry date was changed to January 15, 2013.<ref name="expirepostponed">{{cite web | url=http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2671501 | title=An update that postpones the expiration date of Windows 8 Developer Preview and Windows 8 Server Developer Preview is available | publisher=Microsoft Corporation | date=February 16, 2012 | accessdate=May 5, 2012}}</ref>

]
On February 19, 2012, Microsoft unveiled a new logo to be adopted for Windows 8. Designed by ] partner ], the Windows logo was changed to resemble a set of four window panes. Additionally, the entire logo is now rendered in a single solid color.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/02/17/redesigning-the-windows-logo.aspx |title=Redesigning the Windows Logo |date=February 17, 2012 |accessdate=February 18, 2012}}</ref>

On February 29, 2012, Microsoft released Windows 8 Consumer Preview, the beta version of Windows 8, build 8250. Alongside other changes, the build removed the ] from the taskbar for the first time since its debut on ]; according to Windows manager Chaitanya Sareen, the Start button was removed to reflect their view that on Windows 8, the desktop was an "app" itself, and not the primary interface of the operating system.<ref name=cnet-warmblanket>{{cite web|title=Microsoft's Chaitanya Sareen gets candid on the evolution of Windows 8|url=http://www.cnet.com/news/chaitanya-sareen-microsofts-principal-program-manager-lead-on-windows-gets-candid-on-windows-8/|work=CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|accessdate=April 5, 2014}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated3">{{Cite web |title=Windows 8: Microsoft unveils consumer preview |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-17205753 |publisher=BBC |date=February 29, 2012 |accessdate=March 1, 2012}}</ref> Windows president Steven Sinofsky said more than 100,000 changes had been made since the developer version went public.<ref name="autogenerated3"/> The day after its release, Windows 8 Consumer Preview had been downloaded over one million times.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/windows-8-consumer-preview-hits-one-million-downloads-in-a-day/ |title=Windows 8 Consumer Preview hits one million downloads in a day |work=Engadget |publisher=AOL |date= March 1, 2012 |accessdate=March 4, 2012}}</ref> Like the Developer Preview, the Consumer Preview expired on January 15, 2013.

Many other builds were released until the Japan's Developers Day conference, when Steven Sinofsky announced that Windows 8 Release Preview (build 8400) would be released during the first week of June.<ref>{{cite web|last=Musil |first=Steven |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57419612-75/windows-8-release-preview-due-in-early-june/ |title=Windows 8 'release preview' due in early June |work=] |publisher=] |date=April 23, 2012 |accessdate=June 11, 2012}}</ref> On May 28, 2012, Windows 8 Release Preview (Standard Simplified Chinese x64 edition, not China-specific version, build 8400) was leaked online on various Chinese and BitTorrent websites.<ref>{{cite web|last=Warren |first=Tom |url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/29/3050546/windows-8-release-preview-leak-chinese-edition |title=Windows 8 Release Preview leaks out ahead of official debut |work=] |date=May 29, 2012 |accessdate=June 11, 2012}}</ref> On May 31, 2012, Windows 8 Release Preview was released to the public by Microsoft.<ref>{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 Release Preview now available to download|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/31/3054939/windows-8-release-preview-download-link-now-live|work=]|publisher=]|date=May 31, 2012 |accessdate=October 27, 2012}}</ref> Major items in the Release Preview included the addition of Sports, Travel, and News apps, along with an integrated version of ] in ].<ref>{{cite web |title=The Windows 8 Release Preview & Windows Upgrade Offer |url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2012/05/31/the-windows-8-release-preview-amp-windows-upgrade-offer-windows8.aspx |work=Windows Experience Blog |publisher=Microsoft |last=LeBlanc |first=Brandon |date=May 31, 2012}}</ref> Like the Developer Preview and the Consumer Preview, the release preview expired on January 15, 2013.

===Release===
] in New York City]]
On August 1, 2012, Windows 8 (build 9200<ref>{{Cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Microsoft completes Windows 8 development, announces release to manufacturing|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/1/3188541/windows-8-rtm-development-complete|accessdate=August 5, 2012|newspaper=]|publisher=]|date=August 1, 2012}}</ref>) was ] with the build number 6.2.9200.16384 .<ref name="rtmdate">{{cite web|url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/08/01/windows-8-has-reached-the-rtm-milestone.aspx|title=Windows 8 has reached the RTM milestone|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|date=August 1, 2012|accessdate=August 1, 2012}}</ref> Microsoft planned to hold a launch event on October 25, 2012<ref>{{cite web | url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57514205-75/microsoft-come-celebrate-windows-8-on-oct-25/ | title=Microsoft: Come 'celebrate' Windows 8 on Oct. 25 | work=] |publisher=] | accessdate=September 17, 2012 | last=Reisinger |first=Don}}</ref> and release Windows 8 for ] on the next day.<ref name="availabilitydate">{{cite web|url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/07/18/windows-8-will-be-available-on.aspx|title=Windows 8 will be available on…|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|date=July 18, 2012|accessdate=July 18, 2012}}</ref> However, only a day after its release to manufacturing, a copy of the final version of Windows 8 Enterprise N (a version for European markets lacking bundled media players to comply with a ]) leaked online, followed by leaks of the final versions of Windows 8 Pro and Enterprise a few days later.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Keizer|first=Gregg|title=Windows 8 Leaked in Final Form|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/260305/windows_8_leaked_in_final_form.html|accessdate= August 9, 2012|work=]|publisher=]|date=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Crothers|first=Brooke|title=Windows 8 final version allegedly leaks out already|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57485894-75/windows-8-final-version-allegedly-leaks-out-already/|accessdate=August 9, 2012|newspaper=CNET|date=August 2, 2012}}</ref> On August 15, 2012, Windows 8 was made available to download for ] and ] subscribers.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 now available to download for MSDN and TechNet subscribers|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/15/3243935/windows-8-download-msdn-technet-subscribers|accessdate=August 16, 2012|newspaper=]|publisher=]|date=August 15, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 was made available to Software Assurance customers on August 16, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2012/08/16/windows-8-is-ready-for-your-enterprise.aspx | title=Windows 8 Is Ready For Your Enterprise |work=Springboard Series Blog |publisher=Microsoft | date=August 16, 2012 | accessdate=August 16, 2012 | last=Rose |first=Stephen}}</ref> Windows 8 was made available for students with a ] subscription on August 22, 2012, earlier than advertised.<ref name="Dreamspark">{{cite web|first=Lee |last=Stott |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/uk_faculty_connection/archive/2012/08/18/visual-studio-2012-and-windows-on-dreamspark.aspx |title=Visual Studio 2012 and Windows on DreamSpark |work=Microsoft UK Faculty Connection |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 18, 2012 |accessdate=August 24, 2012}}</ref>

Relatively few changes were made from the Release Preview to the final version; these included updated versions of its pre-loaded apps, the renaming of Windows Explorer to File Explorer, the replacement of the Aero Glass theme from Windows Vista and 7 with a new flat and solid-colored theme, and the addition of new background options for the Start screen, lock screen, and desktop.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bott |first=Ed |title=Surprise! What you can expect from Windows 8 RTM |url=http://www.zdnet.com/surprise-what-you-can-expect-from-windows-8-rtm-7000002679/ |work=] |publisher=] |accessdate=August 27, 2012 |date= August 15, 2012}}</ref> Prior to its general availability on October 26, 2012, updates were released for some of Windows 8's bundled apps, and a "General Availability Cumulative Update" (which included fixes to improve performance, compatibility, and battery life) was ], October 9, 2012. Microsoft indicated that due to improvements to its testing infrastructure, general improvements of this nature are to be released more frequently through Windows Update instead of being relegated to ]s and ]s only.<ref name=ars-rtmpatch>{{cite web|last=Cunningham|first=Andrew|title=Post-RTM fixes improve Windows 8's performance and battery life|url=http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/post-rtm-fixes-improve-windows-8s-performance-and-battery-life/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 21, 2012}}</ref><ref name=ssforwin-updates>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 App Update: Mail, Calendar, People And Messaging |url=http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-app-update-mail-calendar-people-messaging-144471 |work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows |publisher=] |accessdate=October 21, 2012 |date=October 10, 2012 |first=Paul |last=Thurrott}}</ref>

Microsoft began an advertising campaign centered around Windows 8 and its ] tablet in October 2012, starting with its first television advertisement premiering on October 14, 2012.<ref name=asd-win8ad>{{cite web|title=Windows Reimagined|url=http://allthingsd.com/20121014/microsoft-starts-tv-advertising-countdown-to-windows-8-launch/?refcat=news|work=All Things Digital|publisher= Dow Jones & Company|accessdate=October 21, 2012}}</ref> Microsoft's advertising budget of US$1.5–1.8&nbsp;billion was significantly larger than the US$200 million campaign used to promote ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forbes.com/sites/netapp/2012/10/11/windows-8-release-date-tablet-microsoft-cloud/ |title=Microsoft Betting BIG on Cloud with Windows 8 and Tablets |last=Einstein |first=Dave |date=October 11, 2012 |work=Forbes |publisher= |accessdate=October 27, 2012}}</ref> As part of its campaign, Microsoft set up 34 ]s inside malls (primarily focusing on Surface), provided training for retail employees in partnership with ], and collaborated with the electronics store chain ] to design expanded spaces to showcase devices. In an effort to make retail displays of Windows 8 devices more "personal", Microsoft also developed a character known in English-speaking markets as "Allison Brown", whose fictional profile (including personal photos, contacts, and emails) is also featured on demonstration units of Windows 8 devices.<ref name=wsj-retailwin8>{{cite web|title=Microsoft Dives into the Retail Scene|url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203400604578070662270723422.html|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=August 22, 2013}}</ref>

]
In May 2013, Microsoft launched a new television campaign for Windows 8 illustrating the capabilities and pricing of Windows 8 tablets in comparison to the ], which featured the voice of ] remarking on the iPad's limitations in a parody of Apple's "]" advertisements.<ref name=verge-msipadad>{{cite web|title=Microsoft recruits Siri to bad-mouth the iPad in new Windows 8 tablet ad|url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/5/22/4357288/windows-8-ad-attacks-apple-ipad-with-siri|work=The Verge|publisher=Vox Media|accessdate=October 26, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pcw-siriad>{{cite web|title=Microsoft turns Siri against Apple in hilarious new Windows 8 ad|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2039629/microsoft-turns-siri-against-apple-in-hilarious-new-windows-8-ad.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|accessdate=October 26, 2013}}</ref> On June 12, 2013 during game 1 of the ], Microsoft premiered the first ad in its "Windows Everywhere" campaign, which promoted Windows 8, ], and the company's suite of online services as an interconnected platform.<ref name=verge-81ad>{{cite web|title=First Windows 8.1 ad features the return of the Start button|url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/9/29/4782384/first-windows-8-1-ad-start-button|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=November 3, 2013}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-windowseverywhere>{{cite web|title=New Microsoft 'Windows Everywhere' ad crosses product boundaries|url=http://www.zdnet.com/new-microsoft-windows-everywhere-ad-crosses-product-boundaries-7000016764/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=November 3, 2013}}</ref>


==New and changed features== ==New and changed features==
{{Main|Features new to Windows 8}}
New features and functionality in Windows 8 include a faster startup through ] integration and the new "Hybrid Boot" mode (which ] the Windows ] on shutdown to speed up the subsequent boot),<ref>{{cite web|last=Woods |first=Ben |url=http://www.zdnet.co.uk/news/desktop-os/2011/09/09/windows-8-hybrid-mode-brings-faster-boot-40093896/ |title=Windows 8 'hybrid' mode brings faster boot |work=]|publisher=]|date=September 9, 2011 |accessdate=January 27, 2012}}</ref> a new lock screen with a clock and notifications,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-welcome-screen-130065 |title=Windows 8 Secrets: Welcome Screen |publisher=SuperSite for Windows |first=Paul |last=Thurrott |date= |accessdate=April 10, 2011}}</ref> and the ability for enterprise users to create ] versions of Windows (known as ]).<ref>{{cite web|last=Mackie |first=Kurt |url=http://mcpmag.com/articles/2011/09/16/microsoft-unveils-windows-to-go-for-the-enterprise.aspx |title=Windows 8 Will Run on Thumb Drive |work=Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine |publisher=1105 Media |date=September 16, 2011 |accessdate=January 27, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Take |first=First |url=http://www.zdnet.co.uk/blogs/zdnet-uk-first-take-10013312/windows-8-windows-to-go-10024384/ |title=Windows 8: Windows To Go |work=] |publisher=] |date=September 20, 2011 |accessdate=January 27, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 also adds native support for ] devices, which allow for faster data transfers and improved power management with compatible devices,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx |title=Building robust USB 3.0 support |publisher=Microsoft Corporation|date=August 22, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396 |title=Microsoft to provide USB 3.0 support for better battery life in Windows 8 |work=]|publisher=] |date=August 2011}}</ref> and ] 4KB ] support,<ref>{{cite web|title=Advanced format (4K) disk compatibility update (Windows)|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx|date=November 28, 2012|accessdate=January 3, 2013|publisher=Microsoft Corporation}}</ref> as well as support for ] to facilitate sharing and communication between devices.<ref name=bbc-w8designs>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 spurs new touchscreen hybrid PC designs|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19421341|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate= October 21, 2012}}</ref>

], which has been renamed File Explorer, now includes a ] in place of the command bar. File operation dialog boxes have been updated to provide more detailed statistics, the ability to pause file transfers, and improvements in the ability to manage conflicts when copying files.<ref>{{cite web|last=Paul|first=Iam|title=Microsoft Overhauls Windows Explorer in Windows 8|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/238699/microsoft_overhauls_windows_explorer_in_windows_8.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|accessdate= February 10, 2012}}</ref> A new "File History" function allows incremental revisions of files to be backed up to and restored from a secondary storage device,<ref name=filehistory>{{cite web|title=Using File History, Windows 8's built-in backup tool|url=http://www.extremetech.com/computing/132628-using-file-history-windows-8s-built-in-backup-tool|work=ExtremeTech|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|accessdate=September 4, 2012}}</ref> while ] allows users to combine different sized hard disks into virtual drives and specify mirroring, parity, or no redundancy on a folder-by-folder basis.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven|title=Virtualizing storage for scale, resiliency, and efficiency|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx|publisher=Microsoft Corporation}}</ref>

] has been redesigned, including a new processes tab with the option to display fewer or more details of running applications and background processes, a heat map using different colors indicating the level of resource usage, network and disk counters, grouping by process type (e.g. applications, background processes and Windows processes), friendly names for processes and a new option which allows users to search the web to find information about obscure processes.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx |title=The Windows 8 Task Manager |publisher=Microsoft |date=October 13, 2011}}</ref> Additionally, the ] has been updated with a simpler and modern design with less technical information displayed.<ref name=cnet-newbsod>{{cite web|last=Kooser|first=Amanda|title=Windows 8 Blue Screen of Death gets sad face :(|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20107347-1/windows-8-blue-screen-of-death-gets-sad-face/|work=CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|date=September 16, 2011|accessdate=May 15, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/windows-8-bsod-ditches-confusing-error-codes-for-uninformative-f/|title=Windows 8 BSoD ditches confusing error codes for uninformative frowny face|first=Terrence |last=O'Brien|work=Engadget|publisher=AOL|date= September 14, 2011|accessdate=May 20, 2012}}</ref>

===Safety and security===
New security features in Windows 8 include two new authentication methods tailored towards touchscreens (] and picture passwords),<ref name=ars-w8-pictureunsecure>{{cite web|last=Goodin|first=Dan|title=Experts: Windows 8 features make account passwords easier to steal|url=http://arstechnica.com/security/2012/10/experts-windows-8-features-make-account-passwords-easier-to-steal/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 20, 2012}}</ref> the addition of ] capabilities to ] (bringing it in parity with ]).<ref name=cw-wdantivirus>{{cite web|title=Windows 8's built-in AV to be security of last resort|url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227707/Windows_8_s_built_in_AV_to_be_security_of_last_resort|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 20, 2012}}</ref> ] filtering integrated into Windows,<ref>{{cite web |last=Tung |first=Liam |title=Win8 SmartScreen nudges software sellers to buy code signing certs |url=http://www.cso.com.au/article/433760/win8_smartscreen_nudges_software_sellers_buy_code_signing_certs/#closeme |work=CSO |publisher=] |accessdate=September 12, 2012}}</ref> ] offers ], which allows parents to monitor and manage their children's activities on a device with activity reports and safety controls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/14/keeping-your-family-safer-with-windows-8.aspx |title=Keeping your family safer with Windows 8 |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=May 14, 2012 |accessdate=June 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/windows-8-family-safety-feature-chaperones-underage-users-thro |title=Windows 8 'Family Safety' feature chaperones underage users through the World Wild Web |publisher=AOL |work=Engadget |date=May 14, 2012 |accessdate=June 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/255582/microsoft_win8_simplifies_improves_parental_monitoring_of_kids_computer_activities.html |title=Microsoft: Win8 Simplifies, Improves Parental Monitoring of Kids Computer Activities |work=PC World |publisher=] |accessdate=June 11, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 also provides integrated ] through the new "Refresh" and "Reset" functions,<ref name=ars-refreshreset>{{cite web|title=Making the lives of IT easier: Windows 8 Refresh, Reset, and Windows To Go|url=http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/making-the-lives-of-it-easier-windows-8-refresh-reset-and-windows-to-go/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 20, 2012}}</ref> including system recovery from USB drive.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shultz|first=Greg|title=Create a Recovery Drive in Windows 8|url=http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/create-a-recovery-drive-in-windows-8/7261|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=April 12, 2013|date=February 13, 2013}}</ref> Windows 8's first security patches would be released on November 13, 2012; it would contain three fixes deemed "critical" by the company.<ref>{{cite web|first1=John P. |last1=Mello |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2013770/windows-8-security-patches-to-be-released.html |title=Windows 8 security patches to be released |work=] |publisher=] |date=November 10, 2012 |accessdate=November 19, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 supports a feature of the ] specification known as "Secure boot", which uses a ] to verify the integrity of the operating system and prevent unauthorized programs such as ]s from infecting the device's boot process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/br259114.aspx |title=Hardware Design and Development for Windows 8 |work=] |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=December 21, 2011 |accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref> Some pre-built devices may be described as "certified" by Microsoft; these must have secure boot enabled by default, and provide ways for users to disable or re-configure the feature. ]-based ] devices must have secure boot permanently enabled.<ref name="building-secureboot"/><ref name=warren /><ref name="wired-sb"/>

===Online services and functionality===
Windows 8 provides heavier integration with online services from Microsoft and others. A user can now log in to Windows with a ], which can be used to access services and ] applications and settings between devices. Windows 8 also ships with a client app for Microsoft's ] ] service, which also allows apps to save files directly to SkyDrive. A SkyDrive client for the desktop and ] is not included in Windows 8, and must be downloaded separately.<ref name=pcmag-win8skydrive>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 and the Cloud: SkyDrive|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2409155,00.asp|work=PC Magazine|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|accessdate=September 9, 2012}}</ref> Bundled multimedia apps are provided under the Xbox brand, including ], ], and the ] companion for use with an ] console. Games can integrate into an ] hub app, which also allows users to view their profile and ].<ref name=pcw-testdrivertm>{{cite web|last=Case|first=Loyd|title=Test Driving Windows 8 RTM|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/260884/test_driving_windows_8_rtm.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|accessdate= September 9, 2012}}</ref> Other bundled apps provide the ability to link ] and ].<ref name=pl-windows8/> Due to Facebook Connect service changes, Facebook support is disabled in all bundled apps effective June 8, 2015.<ref name=ms-facebookremoved>{{cite web|title=Facebook Connect is no longer available|url=https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Facebook-Connect-is-no-longer-available-f31c8107-7b5a-4e3d-8a22-e506dacb6db6?ui=en-US&rs=en-US&ad=US|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=June 8, 2015}}</ref>

] is included as both a desktop program and a touch-optimized app, and includes increased support for ], ], and ]. The Internet Explorer app does not support plugins or ] components, but includes a version of ] that is optimized for touch and low power usage. Initially, Adobe Flash would only work on sites included on a "Compatibility View" ]; however, after feedback from users and additional compatibility tests, an update in March 2013 changed this behavior to use a smaller ] of sites with known compatibility issues instead, allowing Flash to be used on most sites by default.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2013/03/11/flash-in-windows-8.aspx |first=Rob |last=Mauceri |title=Flash in Windows 8 |work=IEBlog |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=March 11, 2013 |accessdate=March 24, 2013}}</ref> The desktop version does not contain these limitations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2012/05/31/windows-release-preview-the-sixth-ie10-platform-preview.aspx|first=Dean |last=Hachamovitch|title=Windows Release Preview: The Sixth IE10 Platform Preview|publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=May 31, 2012|accessdate=June 7, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 also incorporates improved support for ]; the operating system can now detect the insertion of a ] and automatically configure connection settings (including ] and carrier branding), track and reduce bandwidth use on ]. Windows 8 also adds an integrated ] setting to globally disable all wireless connectivity as well. Carriers can also offer account management systems through Windows Store apps, which can be automatically installed as a part of the connection process and offer usage statistics on their respective tile.<ref name=bw8-broadband>{{cite web|title=Engineering Windows 8 for mobile networks|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/20/engineering-windows-8-for-mobility.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=October 21, 2012}}</ref>

===Windows Store apps===
] to the right side of the screen]]
], along ] snapped into a sidebar to the right side of the screen. In Windows 8, desktop and everything on it are treated as one Metro-style app.]]
Windows 8 introduces a new style of application, ''] apps''. According to Microsoft developer Jensen Harris, these apps are to be optimized for ] environments and are more specialized than current ]s. Apps can run either in a full-screen mode, or be snapped to the side of a screen.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Apps can provide ] on screen or animate their tiles on the Start screen with dynamic content. Apps can use "contracts"; a collection of ] to provide common functionality that can integrate with other apps, including search and sharing.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Apps can also provide integration with other services; for example, the People app can connect to a variety of different social networks and services (such as Facebook, ], and ]), while the Photos app can aggregate photos from services such as Facebook and Flickr.<ref name=pl-windows8>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 review|url=http://www.pocket-lint.com/review/5972/microsoft-windows-8-pro-desktop-tablet-os-review|publisher=Pocket Lint|accessdate=September 9, 2012}}</ref>

Windows Store apps run within a new set of ] known as ], which supports ]s such as ], ], ], ], along with ] and ].<ref name="pcw-building"/> If written in some "high-level" languages, apps written for Windows Runtime can be compatible with both Intel and ] versions of Windows,<ref name="bi-windows8"/> otherwise they are not ]. Components may be compiled as Windows Runtime Components, permitting consumption by all compatible languages.<ref name=msdn-winrt-javascript>{{cite web|title=Using the Windows Runtime in JavaScript|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh710230(v=vs.94).aspx|work=msdn|publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=May 2, 2013}}</ref> To ensure stability and security, apps run within a ], and require permissions to access certain functionality, such as accessing the Internet or a camera.<ref name=verge-talkswin8>{{cite web|title=Microsoft talks Windows Store features, Metro app sandboxing for Windows 8 developers|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/17/3026590/microsoft-windows-8-developers-windows-store-sandboxing|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate= September 8, 2012}}</ref>

Retail versions of Windows 8 are only able to install these apps through ]{{emdash}}a namesake distribution platform which offers both apps, and listings for desktop programs certified for comparability with Windows 8.<ref name=bi-windows8>{{cite web|last=Rosoff|first=Matt|title=Here's Everything You Wanted To Know About Microsoft's Upcoming iPad Killers|url=http://articles.businessinsider.com/2012-02-09/tech/31040510_1_steven-sinofsky-pcs-microsoft-first|publisher=]|accessdate= February 10, 2012}}</ref><ref name=verge-talkswin8/> A method to ] apps from outside Windows Store is available to devices running Windows 8 Enterprise and joined to a ]; Windows 8 Pro and ] devices that are not part of a domain can also sideload apps, but only after special product keys are obtained through volume licensing.<ref name=installapps>{{cite web |title=How to Add and Remove Apps |url=http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh852635.aspx |work=] |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=May 31, 2012 |accessdate=October 4, 2012 |quote=To enable sideloading on a Windows 8 Enterprise computer that is not domain-joined or on any Windows® 8 Pro computer, you must use a sideloading product activation key. To enable sideloading on a Windows® RT device, you must use a sideloading product activation key. For more information about sideloading product activation keys, see Microsoft Volume Licensing.}}</ref>

The term "Immersive app" had been used internally by Microsoft developers to refer to the apps prior to the first official presentation of Windows 8, after which they were referred to as "Metro-style apps" in reference to the ]. The term was phased out in August 2012; a Microsoft spokesperson denied rumors that the change was related to a potential trademark issue, and stated that "Metro" was only a codename that would be replaced prior to Windows 8's release.<ref name=zdn-jupiter/><ref name=verge-metrotm>{{cite web|title=Microsoft advises developers to stop using 'Metro' name in apps following possible trademark dispute|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/2/3215039/microsoft-metro-name-dispute-developers|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate= August 3, 2012}}</ref> Following these reports, the terms "Modern UI-style apps",<ref>{{Cite web|title=Microsoft now using 'Modern UI Style' to refer to Windows 8 'Metro Style' apps|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/10/3232921/microsoft-modern-ui-style-metro-style-replacement|accessdate=August 10, 2012}}</ref> "Windows 8-style apps"<ref name=pcmag-metromess>{{cite web|title=Windows 8: The Metro Mess|url=http://forwardthinking.pcmag.com/none/301689-windows-8-the-metro-mess|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=September 8, 2012}}</ref> and "Windows Store apps" began to be used by various Microsoft documents and material to refer to the new apps. In an interview on September 12, 2012, Soma Somasegar (vice president of Microsoft's development software division) confirmed that "Windows Store apps" would be the official term for the apps.<ref name=zdnet-metroname>{{cite web|title=Microsoft finally comes clean(er) on post-Metro naming plans|url=http://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-finally-comes-cleaner-on-post-metro-naming-plans-7000004151/|work=ZDNet|publisher=CBS Interactive|accessdate= September 13, 2012}}</ref> An MSDN page explaining the Metro design language uses the term "Modern design" to refer to the language as a whole.<ref name=msdn-moderndesign>{{cite web|title=Modern design|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/hh781237.aspx|work=MSDN|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=December 28, 2013}}</ref>

====Web browsers====
Exceptions to the restrictions faced by Windows Store apps are given to ]. The user's default browser can distribute a Metro-style web browser in same package as the desktop version, which has access to functionality unavailable to other apps, such as being able to permanently run in the background, use multiple background processes, and use ] code instead of WinRT (allowing for code to be re-used with the desktop version, while still taking advantage of features available to Windows Store apps, such as charms). Microsoft advertises this exception privilege "New experience enabled" (formerly "Metro-style enabled").

The developers of both ] and ] committed to developing Metro-style versions of their browsers; while Chrome's "Windows 8 mode" uses a full-screen version of the existing desktop interface, Firefox's version (which was first made available on the "Aurora" release channel in September 2013) uses a touch-optimized interface inspired by the ]. In October 2013, Chrome's app was changed to mimic the desktop environment used by ].<ref name=winrt-browsers>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 browsers: the only Metro apps to get desktop power|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/windows-8-browsers-the-only-metro-apps-to-get-desktop-power-1073930|work=TechRadar|publisher=Future Publishing|accessdate=November 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Newman|first=Jared|title=Google Chrome Gets Early Metro-Style App for Windows 8|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/257427/google_chrome_gets_early_metrostyle_app_for_windows_8.html|work=PCWorld|publisher=IDG|accessdate=June 13, 2012}}</ref><ref name=firefox-metrow8>{{cite web|title=Mozilla previews 'Metro'-ized Firefox for Windows 8|url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9232137/Mozilla_previews_Metro_ized_Firefox_for_Windows_8|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=November 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Developing a new experience enabled desktop browser|url=http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?linkid=243079|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=November 15, 2012|date=October 22, 2012}}</ref><ref name=engadget-firefoxmetro>{{cite web|title=Firefox for Windows 8 enters Aurora channel with touch and gesture support|url=http://www.engadget.com/2013/09/21/firefox-for-windows-8-enters-aurora-channel/|work=Engadget|accessdate=September 21, 2013}}</ref><ref name=verge-metrochromeos>{{cite web|title=Google is building Chrome OS straight into Windows 8|url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/10/5/4806562/google-building-chrome-os-into-windows-8|work=The Verge|accessdate=October 5, 2013}}</ref> Development of the Firefox app for Windows 8 has since been cancelled, citing a lack of user adoption for the beta versions.<ref>{{cite web|last=Nightingale|first=Johnathan|title=Update on Metro|url=https://blog.mozilla.org/futurereleases/2014/03/14/metro/|work=Firefox Future Releases Blog|accessdate=March 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Interface and desktop===
Windows 8 introduces significant changes to the operating system's user interface, many of which are aimed at improving its experience on ]s and other ] devices. The new user interface is based on Microsoft's ], and uses a ] similar to that of ] as the primary means of launching applications. The Start screen displays a customizable array of tiles linking to various apps and desktop programs, some of which can display constantly updated information and content through "live tiles".<ref name="pcw-building">{{Cite web|title=Build: More Details On Building Windows 8 Metro Apps|url=http://forwardthinking.pcmag.com/show-reports/287736-build-more-details-on-building-windows-8-metro-apps|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=February 10, 2012|first=Michael|last=Miller}}</ref> As a form of ], apps can be snapped to the side of a screen.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Alongside the traditional ], a new simplified and touch-optimized settings app known as "PC Settings" is used for basic configuration and user settings. It does not include many of the advanced options still accessible from the normal Control Panel.<ref name=verge-blueleak>{{cite web|title=Windows Blue: a video preview of what's next for Windows 8|url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/3/25/4144618/windows-blue-video-preview-screenshots|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=March 26, 2013}}</ref>

A vertical ] known as ]<ref name="the-charms-msd" /> (accessed by swiping from the right edge of a touchscreen, or pointing the cursor at ] in the right corners of a screen) provides access to system and app-related functions, such as search, sharing, device management, settings, and a Start button.<ref name="the-charms-msd">{{cite web|title=Charms: Search, share, start, devices, and settings|url=http://www.microsoft.com/Surface/en-US/support/getting-started/using-the-charms?lc=1033|work=Microsoft Surface documentation|publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Otey|first=Michael|title=Top 10: Windows 8 Keyboard and Mouse Survival Guide|url=http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/top-10-windows-8-keyboard-and-mouse-survival-guide-0|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> The traditional ] for running desktop applications is accessed via a tile on the Start screen. The Start button on the taskbar from previous versions of Windows has been converted into a ] in the lower-left corner of the screen, which displays a large ] displaying a thumbnail of the Start screen.<ref name=w8-nzh-farewell>{{Cite web|title=Windows 8: Farewell Start button?|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/technology/news/article.cfm?c_id=5&objectid=10784707|accessdate=February 10, 2012 | work=The New Zealand Herald|date=February 10, 2012}}</ref><ref name=pcworld-metromouse/> Swiping from the left edge of a touchscreen or clicking in the top-left corner of the screen allows one to switch between apps and Desktop. Pointing the cursor in the top-left corner of the screen and moving down reveals a thumbnail list of active apps.<ref name=pcworld-metromouse>{{cite web|title=A Guide to Getting Around the Windows 8 Beta With a Mouse|url=http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/251083/a_guide_to_getting_around_the_windows_8_beta_with_a_mouse.html|publisher=PC World|accessdate=September 8, 2012}}</ref> Aside from the removal of the Start button and the replacement of the ] theme with a flatter and solid-colored design, the desktop interface on Windows 8 is similar to that of ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2404647,00.asp|title=RIP Aero Glass; Windows 8 Sticks a Fork in Familiar UI|date=May 19, 2012|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=May 20, 2012}}</ref>

==Removed features==
{{main|List of features removed in Windows 8}}
Several notable features have been removed in Windows 8, beginning with the traditional ]. Support for playing ] was removed from ] due to the cost of licensing the necessary decoders (especially for devices which do not include ]s at all) and the prevalence of online streaming services. For the same reasons, ] is not included by default on Windows 8, but Windows Media Center and DVD playback support can be purchased in the "Pro Pack" (which upgrades the system to Windows 8 Pro) or "Media Center Pack" add-on for Windows 8 Pro. As with prior versions, third-party ] software can still be used to enable DVD playback.<ref name=droppingDVD>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2403983,00.asp|title=Microsoft Dropping DVD Playback Support in Windows 8|first=Chloe |last=Albanesius|work=]|publisher=]|date=May 4, 2012|accessdate= May 20, 2012}}</ref>

], the ] of Windows, is ]. It still ships with Windows 8 and continues to work on preset schedules, but is pushed to the background and can only be accessed through a Control Panel applet called "Windows 7 File Recovery".<ref name="cookbook" />{{Rp|76|date=November 2012}} ], a component of ] that once saved previous versions of changed files, no longer protects local files and folders. It can only access previous versions of shared files stored on a ] computer.<ref name="cookbook" />{{Rp|74|date=November 2012}} The subsystem on which these components worked, however, is still available for other software to use.<ref name="cookbook">{{cite web
|url = http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=27416
|title = Windows and Windows Server Developer Preview Compatibility Cookbook
|publisher = Microsoft
|date = March 27, 2012
|accessdate = October 26, 2012
}}</ref>{{Rp|74|date=November 2012}}

==Hardware requirements==

===PCs===
The minimum system requirements for Windows 8 are slightly higher than ]. The ] must support the ] (PAE), ], and ]. Windows Store apps require a screen resolution of 1024×768 or higher to run; a resolution of 1366×768 or higher is required to use the snap functionality.<ref>{{cite web|title=Upgrade to Windows 8|url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=October 25, 2012}}</ref> To receive certification, Microsoft requires candidate x86 systems to resume from standby in 2 seconds or less.<ref name="withinwindows.com">{{cite web|url = http://www.withinwindows.com/2012/01/16/windows-8-secrets-pc-and-device-requirements/ |title = Windows 8 Secrets: PC and Device Requirements |publisher = Withinwindows.com |date = January 16, 2012 |accessdate = April 22, 2012}}{{Better source|reason = Cite actual MS website instead of just a blog|date = May 2013}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; margin: auto;"
|+ Minimum hardware requirements for Windows 8<ref>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 system requirements|url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/system-requirements|work=Windows Help|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=December 15, 2012}}</ref>
|-
! Component
! Minimum
! Recommended
|-
! ]
| 1 ] ]<br />] or ] architecture<br />Support for ], ] and ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/hh975398.aspx|title=PAE/NX/SSE2 Support Requirement Guide for Windows 8 |accessdate=June 4, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=What is PAE, NX, and SSE2 and why does my PC need to support them to run Windows 8?|url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/what-is-pae-nx-sse2|work=Windows Help|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=December 15, 2012}}</ref>
| ] architecture<br />] (SLAT) support for ]
|-
! ]
| '''IA-32 edition:''' 1 ]<br />'''x64 edition:''' 2 ]
| 4 ]
|-
! ]
| ] graphics device<br />] 1.0 or higher driver
| ] graphics device
|-
! ]
| {{N/A}}
| 1024×768 ]s
|-
! Input device
| ] and ]
| ] ]
|-
! Hard disk space
| '''IA-32 edition:''' 16 ]<br />'''x64 edition:''' 20 ]
| {{N/A}}
|-
! Other
| {{N/A}}
| ] v2.3.1 Errata B with Microsoft Windows Certification Authority in its database<br />] (TPM)<br />Internet connectivity
|}

Microsoft's ] specification, which hardware vendors may optionally comply with, sets new power consumption requirements that extend above the above minimum specifications.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248729.aspx|title=Introduction to Connected Standby|date=September 28, 2012|publisher=Microsoft}}</ref> Included in this standard are a number of security-specific requirements designed to improve ], notably against ]s.

32-bit SKUs of Windows 8 only support a maximum of 4 GB of RAM. 64-bit SKUs, however support more: Windows 8 x64 supports 128 GB while Windows 8 Pro and Enterprise x64 support 512 GB.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/aa366778%28v=vs.85%29.aspx#physical_memory_limits_windows_8 |title=Memory Limits for Windows and Windows Server Releases |work=] |publisher=] |at=Physical Memory Limits: Windows 8}}</ref>

Microsoft will no longer support Windows 8.1 on computers using CPUs that utilize Intel's ] microarchitecture effective July 17, 2018. All future CPU microarchitectures, as well as Skylake systems after this date, will only be supported on ]. After the deadline, only critical security updates will be released for users on these platforms. This will not affect the support status of older CPUs on Windows 8.1.<ref name=ars-skylake18months>{{cite web|title=Skylake users given 18 months to upgrade to Windows 10|url=http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/01/skylake-users-given-18-months-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/|website=]|publisher=]|accessdate=16 January 2016}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-newsupportpolicy>{{cite web|last1=Bott|first1=Ed|title=Microsoft updates support policy: New CPUs will require Windows 10|url=http://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-updates-support-policy-new-cpus-will-require-windows-10/|website=]|publisher=]|accessdate=16 January 2016}}</ref><ref name="ars-oemskylake">{{cite web|title=Skylake support on Windows 7 and 8.1 given a one-year extension|url=http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/03/skylake-support-on-windows-7-and-8-1-given-a-one-year-extension/|website=]|publisher=]|accessdate=18 March 2016}}</ref><ref name="cw-skylakechange">{{cite web|title=Microsoft backtracks on Windows 7 support deadline|url=http://www.computerworld.com/article/3046032/windows-pcs/microsoft-backtracks-on-windows-7-support-deadline.html|website=]|publisher=]|accessdate=18 March 2016}}</ref>

===Tablets and convertibles===
Microsoft released minimum hardware requirements for tablet and ] devices to be "certified" for Windows 8, and defined a convertible form factor as a standalone device that combines the PC, display and rechargeable power source with a mechanically attached keyboard and pointing device in a single chassis. A convertible can be transformed into a tablet where the attached input devices are hidden or removed leaving the display as the only input mechanism.<ref>{{cite web|last=Crothers |first=Brooke |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-13924_3-57360734-64/microsoft-lays-out-window-8-tablet-hardware-requirements/ |title=Microsoft lays out Window 8 tablet hardware requirements &#124; Nanotech—The Circuits Blog—CNET News |publisher=News.cnet.com |date=January 17, 2012 |accessdate=April 22, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Newman |first=Jared |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/248279/windows_8_tablet_requirements_revealed.html |title=Windows 8 Tablet Requirements Revealed |publisher=PCWorld |date=January 27, 2012 |accessdate=April 22, 2012}}</ref> On March 12, 2013, Microsoft amended its certification requirements to only require that screens on tablets have a minimum resolution of 1024×768 (down from the previous 1366×768). The amended requirement is intended to allow "greater design flexibility" for future products.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab>{{cite web|title=New Windows 8 hardware specs hint at 7-inch tablets and a Microsoft Reader|url=http://www.zdnet.com/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader-7000013271/|publisher=ZDNet|accessdate=March 29, 2013}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="margin:auto"
|+ Hardware certification requirements for Windows tablets<ref>{{cite web|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/hh748200.aspx |title=Windows 8 Hardware Certification Requirements |work=] |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date= |accessdate=April 22, 2012}}</ref>
|-
! ]
| DirectX 10 graphics device with WDDM 1.2 or higher driver
|-
! ]
| 10&nbsp;GB free space, after the out-of-box experience completes
|-
! Standard buttons
| {{Keypress|Power}}, {{Keypress|Rotation lock}}, {{keypress|Windows key}}, {{keypress|Volume up}}, {{keypress|Volume down}}
|-
! ]
| ] supporting a minimum of 5-point digitizers and resolution of at least 1024×768. The physical dimensions of the display panel must match the aspect ratio of the native resolution. The native resolution of the panel can be greater than 1024 (horizontally) and 768 (vertically). Minimum native color depth is 32-bits. If the display is under 1366×768, disclaimers must be included in documentation to notify users that the Snap function is not available.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab/>
|-
! Camera
| Minimum ]
|-
! ]
| 3 axes with data rates at or above 50&nbsp;Hz
|-
! ]
| At least one controller and exposed port.
|-
! Connect
| ] and ]
|-
! Other
| ], ], ] and ].
If a mobile broadband device is integrated into a tablet or convertible system, then an ] radio is required.
Devices supporting ] need to have visual marks to help users locate and use the proximity technology.
The new button combination for Ctrl + Alt + Del is Windows Key + Power.
|}

Updated certification requirements were implemented to coincide with Windows 8.1. As of 2014, all certified devices with integrated displays must contain a 720p webcam and higher quality speakers and microphones, while all certified devices that support Wi-Fi must support Bluetooth as well. As of 2015, all certified devices must contain ] chips.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lee|first=Nicole|title=Microsoft sets new hardware certification requirements for Windows 8.1|url=http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/12/microsoft-new-hardware-certification-requirements-for-windows8.1/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=July 12, 2013|date=July 12, 2013}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-cert1415>{{cite web|title=New Bluetooth, audio, TPM requirements coming for Windows 8 devices|url=http://www.zdnet.com/new-bluetooth-audio-tpm-requirements-coming-for-windows-8-devices-7000018003/|work=ZDNet|publisher=CBS Interactive|accessdate=September 18, 2013}}</ref>

==Editions==
{{main|Windows 8 editions}}
Windows 8 is available in three different editions, of which the lowest version, branded simply as ''Windows 8'', and ''Windows 8 Pro'', were sold at retail in most countries, and as pre-loaded software on new computers. Each edition of Windows 8 includes all of the capabilities and features of the edition below it, and add additional features oriented towards their market segments. For example, ''Pro'' added ], ], the ability to join a ], and the ability to install ] as a paid add-on. Users of ''Windows 8'' can purchase a "Pro Pack" license that upgrades their system to ''Windows 8 Pro'' through ]. This license also includes Windows Media Center.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice">{{cite web | url=http://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/microsoft_news/240003119 | title=Microsoft Reveals Windows 8 Upgrade Price | publisher=InformationWeek | date=July 3, 2012 | accessdate=July 4, 2012 |first=Paul |last=McDougall}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-book-guide-product-editions-144067 |title=Windows 8 Secrets, Beyond the Book: Guide to Product Editions |work=Supersite for Windows|publisher=Penton|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name="Blogging Windows ">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2012/04/16/announcing-the-windows-8-editions/ |title=Announcing the Windows 8 Editions |publisher=Microsoft Corporation|date=April 16, 2012 |accessdate=April 17, 2012}}</ref> ''Windows 8 Enterprise'' contains additional features aimed towards business environments, and is only available through ].<ref name="Blogging Windows"/> A port of Windows 8 for ], ], is marketed as an edition of Windows 8, but was only included as pre-loaded software on devices specifically developed for it.<ref name="Blogging Windows "/>

Windows 8 was distributed as a retail box product on ], and through a ] that could be converted into DVD or ] install media. As part of a launch promotion, Microsoft offered ''Windows 8 Pro'' upgrades at a discounted price of US$39.99 online, or $69.99 for retail box from its launch until January 31, 2013; afterward the ''Windows 8'' price has been $119.99 and the Pro price $199.99.<ref name="windowsblog8upgrade">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/07/02/upgrade-to-windows-8-pro-for-39-99.aspx | title=Upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99 | work=The Windows Blog | date=July 2, 2012 | accessdate=July 29, 2012 | publisher=Microsoft Corporation |first=Brandon |last=LeBlanc}}</ref><ref name="15dollarupgradeconfirmed">{{cite web | url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227649/Update_Microsoft_confirms_15_Windows_8_upgrade | title=Update: Microsoft confirms $15 Windows 8 upgrade | work=] |publisher=] | date=July 1, 2012 | accessdate=July 4, 2012 |first=Gregg |last=Keizer}}</ref> Those who purchased new PCs pre-loaded with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate between June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013 could digitally purchase a Windows 8 Pro upgrade for US$14.99.<ref name="paulthurrottleak">{{cite web | url=http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/windows-8-pro-pc-upgrade-cost-15-143077 | title=Windows 8 Pro PC Upgrade Cost Is Just $15 | work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows |publisher=] | date=May 14, 2012 | accessdate=July 4, 2012 | first=Paul | last=Thurrott |authorlink=Paul Thurrott }}</ref> Several PC manufacturers offered ] and refunds on Windows 8 upgrades obtained through the promotion on select models, such as ] (in the U.S. and Canada on select models), and ] (in Europe on selected ] models).<ref name=pcmag-acerup>{{cite web|title=Acer Offering Free Windows 8 Pro Upgrades for Ultrabook Buyers|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2407108,00.asp|work=PC Magazine|accessdate=September 18, 2012}}</ref><ref name=ts-hpwin8>{{cite web|title=HP offering Windows 8 upgrade refund on select PCs|url=http://www.techspot.com/news/49931-hp-offering-windows-8-upgrade-refund-on-select-pcs.html|publisher=TechSpot|accessdate=September 18, 2012}}</ref> During these promotions, the Windows Media Center add-on for ''Windows 8 Pro'' was also offered for free.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice"/>

Unlike previous versions of Windows, Windows 8 was distributed at retail in "Upgrade" licenses only, which require an existing version of Windows to install. The "full version software" SKU, which was more expensive but could be installed on computers without an eligible OS or none at all, was discontinued. In lieu of full version, a specialized "System Builder" SKU was introduced. The "System Builder" SKU replaced the ] (OEM) SKU, which was only allowed to be used on PCs meant for resale, but added a "Personal Use License" exemption that officially allowed its purchase and personal use by users on ]s.<ref name="zdnet-everything81"/><ref name=smh-misleading/><ref name=cnet-productkey>{{cite web|last=Whitney|first=Lance|title=Windows 8 moves to BIOS-based product keys|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|publisher=CNET|accessdate=November 29, 2012}}</ref><ref name=smh-misleading>{{cite web|last=Moses|first=Asher|title=Windows 8 upgrade boxes 'mislead' customers|url=http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/computers/windows-8-upgrade-boxes-mislead-customers-20121128-2acwx.html|work=Sydney Morning Herald|publisher=]|accessdate=November 29, 2012}}</ref>

Retail distribution of Windows 8 has since been discontinued in favor of ]. Unlike 8, 8.1 is available as "full version software" at both retail and online for download that does not require a previous version of Windows in order to be installed. Pricing for these new copies remain identical.<ref name=ms-8.1skus>{{cite web|title=Pricing and Packaging for Windows 8.1|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/09/17/pricing-and-packaging-for-windows-8-1.aspx|work=Blogging Windows|publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=September 18, 2013}}</ref> With the retail release returning to full version software for Windows 8.1, the "Personal Use License" exemption was removed from the OEM SKU, meaning that end users building their own PCs for personal use must use the full retail version in order to satisfy the Windows 8.1 licensing requirements.<ref name="zdnet-everything81">{{cite web|last1=Bott|first1=Ed|title=Everything you need to know about your Windows 8.1 upgrade options|url=http://www.zdnet.com/article/everything-you-need-to-know-about-your-windows-8-1-upgrade-options/|website=ZDNet|accessdate=January 26, 2015|date=October 4, 2013}}</ref> ''Windows 8.1 with Bing'' is a special OEM-specific SKU of ''Windows 8.1'' subsidized by Microsoft's ] search engine.<ref name=ms-windows8withbing/>

==Software compatibility==
The three desktop editions of Windows 8 support 32-bit and 64-bit architectures; retail copies of Windows 8 include install DVDs for both architectures, while the online installer automatically installs the version corresponding with the architecture of the system's existing Windows installation.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice"/><ref name=pt-8box>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 Pro Retail Box|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-pro-retail-box|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|accessdate=September 18, 2013}}</ref> The 32-bit version runs on CPUs compatible with ] architecture ] (known as ]) or newer, and can run ] and ] ], although 16-bit support must be enabled first.<ref name="neowin on 16-bit">{{cite web|last=Callaham|first=John|title=Microsoft: Windows 8 32-bit can still run 16-bit apps|url=http://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-windows-8-32-bit-can-still-run-16-bit-apps|work=Neowin.net|publisher=Neowin|accessdate=December 16, 2012|date=May 16, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 will run 16-bit apps, says Microsoft|url=http://www.winbeta.org/news/windows-8-will-run-16-bit-apps-says-microsoft|work=WinBeta|accessdate=December 16, 2012|date=May 16, 2012}}</ref> (16-bit applications are developed for CPUs compatible with ]. Microsoft started moving away from this architecture after ].<ref name="neowin on 16-bit" />)

The 64-bit version runs on CPUs compatible with x86 ] (known as ], or x64) or newer, and can run 32-bit and ] programs. 32-bit programs and operating system are restricted to supporting only {{nowrap|4 ]s}} of memory while 64-bit systems can theoretically support {{nowrap|2048 gigabytes}} of memory.<ref name=64vs32>{{cite web|title=32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions|url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/32-bit-and-64-bit-Windows-frequently-asked-questions|work=Windows Support portal|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=December 16, 2012}}</ref> 64-bit operating systems require a different set of device drivers than those of 32-bit operating systems.<ref name=64vs32 />

Windows RT, the only edition of Windows 8 for systems with ] processors, only supports applications included with the system (such as a special version of ]), supplied through Windows Update, or Windows Store apps, to ensure that the system only runs applications that are optimized for the architecture. Windows RT does not support running IA-32 or x64 applications.<ref name="b8-20120209">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/02/09/building-windows-for-the-arm-processor-architecture.aspx|title=Building Windows for the ARM processor architecture |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=February 9, 2012 |accessdate=February 14, 2012}}</ref> Windows Store apps can either support both the x86 and ARM architectures, or compiled to support a specific architecture.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/13/welcome-to-windows-8-the-developer-preview.aspx|title=Welcome to Windows 8—The Developer Preview|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=March 11, 2012}}</ref>

==Reception==
]s in a Microsoft Store]]

===Pre-release===
<!--Maybe put reviews of the preview builds here too? -->
Following the unveiling of Windows 8, Microsoft faced criticism (particularly from ] supporters) for mandating that devices receiving its optional certification for Windows 8 have secure boot enabled by default using a key provided by Microsoft. Concerns were raised that secure boot could ] the use of alternate operating systems such as ]. In a post discussing secure boot on the ''Building Windows 8'' blog, Microsoft developer Tony Mangefeste indicated that vendors would provide means to customize secure boot, stating that "At the end of the day, the customer is in control of their PC. Microsoft's philosophy is to provide customers with the best experience first, and allow them to make decisions themselves."<ref name="building-secureboot">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx |title=Protecting the pre-OS environment with UEFI |first=Tony |last=Mangefeste |date=September 22, 2011 |publisher=Building Windows 8 |accessdate=October 17, 2011 |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/69p0SYX8t |archivedate=August 10, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html |title=Windows 8 Secure Boot: The Controversy Continues |work=PCWorld |publisher=IDG |first=Katherine |last=Noyes |date=January 18, 2012 |accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref> Microsoft's certification guidelines for Windows 8 ultimately revealed that vendors would be required to provide means for users to re-configure or disable secure boot in their device's UEFI firmware. It also revealed that ] devices (Windows RT) would be required to have secure boot permanently enabled, with no way for users to disable it. However, Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' noted that other vendors have implemented similar hardware restrictions on their own ARM-based tablet and smartphone products (including those running Microsoft's own ] platform), but still argued that Microsoft should "keep a consistent approach across ARM and x86, though, not least because of the number of users who'd love to run Android alongside Windows 8 on their future tablets."<ref name=warren /><ref name="wired-sb">{{Cite web|last=Garling |first=Caleb |url=http://www.wired.com/wiredenterprise/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-sparks-linux-furor-and-a-microsoft-response/ |title=Windows 8 Secure Boot Sparks Linux Furor, and a Microsoft Response |work=] |publisher=Condé Nast |date=September 23, 2011 |accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |url=http://arstechnica.com/business/news/2012/01/microsoft-mandating-secure-boot-on-arm-making-linux-installs-difficult.ars |title=Microsoft mandating Secure Boot on ARM, making Linux installs difficult |work=] |publisher=Condé Nast |date=January 16, 2012 |accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref name=warren>{{cite web |url=http://www.theverge.com/microsoft/2012/1/16/2710502/microsoft-secure-boot-windows-8-arm |title=Windows 8 ARM devices won't have the option to switch off Secure Boot |first=Tom |last=Warren |work=] |date=January 16, 2012 |accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref> No mandate is made regarding the installation of third-party certificates that would enable running alternative programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerworlduk.com/blogs/open-enterprise/is-microsoft-blocking-linux-booting-on-arm-hardware-3569162/|title=Is Microsoft Blocking Linux Booting on ARM Hardware?|first=Glyn |last=Moody|date=January 12, 2012|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.computerworld.com/19577/why_microsoft_should_lift_the_possible_ban_on_linux_booting_on_windows_arm_devices |title=Why Microsoft should lift the possible ban on Linux booting on Windows 8 ARM devices |work=] |publisher=] |date=January 13, 2012 |accessdate=January 27, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=James |last=Niccolai |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9223446/Windows_8_on_ARM_You_can_look_but_you_can_t_touch |title=Windows 8 on ARM: You can look but you can't touch |work=] |publisher=] |date=January 13, 2012 |accessdate=January 27, 2012}}</ref>

Several notable video game developers criticized Microsoft for making its Windows Store a ] subject to its own regulations, as it conflicted with their view of the ] as an ]. ] (creator of the ] '']''),<ref name=bbc-win8minecraft>{{cite web|title=Minecraft creator attacks Microsoft's Windows 8 plan|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19760977|publisher=BBC|work=BBC News|accessdate= October 16, 2012}}</ref> ] (co-founder of ] and developer of software distribution platform ]),<ref name=GabeNewell>{{cite web|title=Valve's Gabe Newell on the Future of Games, Wearable Computers, Windows 8 and More|url=http://allthingsd.com/20120725/valves-gabe-newell-on-the-future-of-games-wearable-computers-windows-8-and-more|work=All Things D|publisher=Dow Jones & Company|accessdate= October 27, 2012}}</ref> and ] from ] voiced concern about the closed nature of the Windows Store.<ref name=RobPardo>{{cite web|title=Blizzard's Rob Pardo: Windows 8 is "not awesome" for the company|url=http://www.neowin.net/news/blizzards-rob-pardo-windows-8-is-not-awesome-for-the-company|work=]|publisher=Neowin, LLC|accessdate= October 27, 2012}}</ref> However, Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' stated that Microsoft's addition of the Store was simply responding to the success of both Apple and Google in pursuing the "curated application store approach."<ref name=verge-w8/>

===Critical reception===
Reviews of the various editions of Windows 8 have been mixed. Tom Warren of '']'' said that although Windows 8's emphasis on touch computing was significant and risked alienating desktop users, a "tablet PC with Windows 8 makes an ] feel immediately out of date" due to the capabilities of the operating system's hybrid model and increased focus on cloud services.<ref name=verge-w8/> David Pierce of ''The Verge'' described Windows 8 as "the first desktop operating system that understands what a computer is supposed to do in 2012" and praised Microsoft's "no compromise" approach and the operating system's emphasis on Internet connectivity and cloud services. Pierce also considered the Start Screen to be a "brilliant innovation for desktop computers" when compared with "folder-littered desktops on every other OS" because it allows users to interact with dynamic information.<ref name="DavidPierce">{{cite web |url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/16/3246185/this-is-my-next-windows-8 |title=This is my next: Windows 8 |last=Pierce |first=David |date=August 16, 2012 |publisher=] |work=The Verge |accessdate=March 14, 2015}}</ref> In contrast, an '']'' article said it was Microsoft "flailing"<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.extremetech.com/computing/99967-windows-8-is-microsoft-flailing
| title = Windows 8: Is Microsoft flailing?
| last = Cardinal
| first = David
| date = October 14, 2011
| accessdate = April 17, 2013
}}</ref> and a review in '']'' condemned the Metro-style user interface.<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2393037,00.asp#fbid=rTzT1ufXaJM
| title = Microsoft Stops, Drops, and Rolls with Metro
| last = Dvorak
| first = John
| date = September 15, 2011
| accessdate = April 17, 2013
}}</ref> Some of the included apps in Windows 8 were considered to be basic and lacking in functionality, but the Xbox apps were praised for their promotion of a multi-platform entertainment experience. Other improvements and features (such as File History, Storage Spaces, and the updated Task Manager) were also regarded as positive changes.<ref name=verge-w8>{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 review|url=http://www.theverge.com/2012/10/23/3537710/windows-8-review|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 26, 2012}}</ref> Peter Bright of ] wrote that while its user interface changes may overshadow them, Windows 8's improved performance, updated file manager, new storage functionality, expanded security features, and updated Task Manager were still positive improvements for the operating system. Bright also said that Windows 8's duality towards tablets and traditional PCs was an "extremely ambitious" aspect of the platform as well, but criticized Microsoft for emulating ]'s model of a closed distribution platform when implementing the Windows Store.<ref name=ars-w8review/>

The interface of Windows 8 has been the subject of mixed reaction. Bright wrote that its system of hot corners and edge swiping "wasn't very obvious" due to the lack of instructions provided by the operating system on the functions accessed through the user interface, even by the video tutorial added on the ] release (which only instructed users to point at corners of the screen or swipe from its sides). Despite this "]", Bright said that Windows 8's interface worked well in some places, but began to feel incoherent when switching between the "Metro" and desktop environments, sometimes through inconsistent means.<ref name=ars-w8review>{{cite web|last=Bright|first=Peter|title=Windows, reimagined: A review of Windows 8|url=http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/windows-reimagined-a-review-of-windows-8/|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 26, 2012}}</ref> Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' wrote that the new interface was "as stunning as it is surprising", contributing to an "incredibly personal" experience once it is customized by the user, but had a steep learning curve, and was awkward to use with a keyboard and mouse. He noted that while forcing all users to use the new touch-oriented interface was a risky move for Microsoft as a whole, it was necessary in order to push development of apps for the Windows Store.<ref name=verge-w8/> Others, such as Adrian Kingsley-Hughes from ], considered the interface to be "clumsy and impractical" due to its inconsistent design (going as far as considering it "two operating systems unceremoniously bolted together"), and concluded that "Windows 8 wasn't born out of a need or demand; it was born out of a desire on Microsoft's part to exert its will on the PC industry and decide to shape it in a direction—touch and tablets -- that allows it to compete against, and remain relevant in the face of Apple's iPad."<ref>{{cite web|last=Kingsley-Hughes |first=Adrian |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/hardware/final-thoughts-on-windows-8-a-design-disaster/20706 |title=Final thoughts on Windows 8: A design disaster |work=] |publisher=] |date=June 7, 2012 |accessdate=November 27, 2012}}</ref>

In 2013, Frank X. Shaw, a Microsoft corporate vice president, said that while many of the negative reviews were extreme, it was a "good thing" that Microsoft was "listening to feedback and improving a product".<ref>{{cite web|last=Crothers |first=Brooke |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57584029-75/microsoft-responds-to-extreme-windows-8-criticism/ |title=Microsoft responds to 'extreme' Windows 8 criticism |work=] |publisher=] |date=May 11, 2013 |accessdate=May 15, 2013}}</ref>

The ] (ACSI) reported a decline in Microsoft's customer satisfaction, the lowest it has been since ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theacsi.org/?option=com_content&view=article&id=149&catid=&Itemid=214&c=Microsoft |title=American Customer Satisfaction Index: Microsoft}}</ref>

===Market share and sales===
Microsoft says that 4 million users upgraded to Windows 8 over the weekend after its release,<ref>{{cite web |last=Vormack |first=Lindsay |title=Microsoft confirms 4 million Windows 8 upgrades over opening weekend |url=http://www.itpro.co.uk/643867/microsoft-confirms-4-million-windows-8-upgrades-over-opening-weekend |work=IT PRO |publisher=Dennis Publishing |date=October 31, 2012 |accessdate=October 31, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Kingsley-Hughes |first=Adrian |title=Microsoft's Ballmer not ready to reveal Windows 8, Surface sales |url=http://www.zdnet.com/microsofts-ballmer-not-ready-to-reveal-windows-8-surface-sales-7000006602/ |work=] |publisher=] |date=October 30, 2012 |accessdate=October 31, 2012}}</ref> which CNET says was well below Microsoft's internal projections and was described inside the company as disappointing.<ref>{{cite web |last=Crothers |first=Brooke |title=Windows 8 sales 'well below' projections, report claims |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57551433-75/windows-8-sales-well-below-projections-report-claims/ |work=] |publisher=] |accessdate=November 19, 2012 |date=November 16, 2012}}</ref>

On November 27, 2012, Microsoft announced that it has sold 40 million licenses of Windows 8 in the first month, surpassing the pace of Windows 7.<ref name="40m-sold">{{cite web |title= Windows 8—40 Million Licenses Sold |url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/11/27/windows-8-40-million-licenses-sold.aspx |work=Blogging Windows |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |first=Brandon |last=LeBlanc |date=November 27, 2012 |accessdate=November 27, 2012}}</ref>

However, according to research firm NPD, sales of devices running Windows in the United States have declined 21 percent compared to the same time period in 2011.<ref>{{cite web |last=Albanesius |first=Chloe |title=Windows 8 Sees 'Slow Start,' Analysts Say |url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412635,00.asp |work=] |publisher=] |date=November 29, 2012 |accessdate=December 4, 2012}}</ref> As the holiday shopping season wrapped up, Windows 8 sales continued to lag, even as Apple reported brisk sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/24/technology/tepid-sales-of-microsofts-windows-8-point-to-shaky-market.html|title=Windows 8 Sales Disappoint in Shaky PC Market|accessdate=December 28, 2012|date=December 23, 2012|first=Nick |last=Wingfield|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> The market research firm ] reported an overall drop in PC sales for the quarter, and said the drop may have been partly due to consumer reluctance to embrace the new features of the OS and poor support from OEM for these features.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.networkworld.com/news/2013/011113-windows8-update-265762.html |title=Windows 8 Update: IDC blames bad quarter for PC sales on Windows 8 |work=Network World |publisher=] |date=January 11, 2013 |accessdate=March 24, 2013 |first=Tim |last=Greene}}</ref> This capped the first year of declining PC sales to the Asia Pacific region, as consumers bought more mobile devices than Windows PCs.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muncaster |first=Phil |url=http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/01/23/lenovo_on_top_apac_pc_falls/ |title=APAC PC shipments FALL for first time ever in 2012 |work=] |publisher=Situation Publishing |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=March 24, 2013}}</ref>

Windows 8 surpassed ] in market share with a 5.1% usage rate according to numbers posted in July 2013 by ], with usage on a steady upward trajectory.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harvey |first=Cynthia |url=http://www.datamation.com/news/net-applications-windows-8-captures-5.1-market-share.html |title=Net Applications: Windows 8 Captures 5.1% Market Share |work=Datamation |publisher=] |date=July 1, 2013 |accessdate=July 8, 2013}}</ref> However, intake of Windows 8 still lags behind that of ] and ] at the same point in their release cycles. Windows 8's tablet market share has also been growing steadily, with 7.4% of tablets running Windows in Q1 2013 according to Strategy Analytics, up from nothing just a year before. However, this is still well below ] and ], which posted 43.4% and 48.2% market share respectively, although both operating systems have been on the market much longer than Windows 8.<ref name = "Strategy Analytics">{{cite web|first=Natasha |last=Lomas |url=http://techcrunch.com/2013/04/25/strategy-analytics-q1-tablet-stats/ |title=Windows 8 Wins 7.4% Share of Global Tablet OS Market in Q1 – "Niche" Portion Still Beats Windows Phone's Smartphone Share |work=] |publisher=] |date=April 25, 2013 |accessdate=May 20, 2013}}</ref> Strategy Analytics also noted "a shortage of top tier apps" for Windows tablets despite Microsoft strategy of paying developers to create apps for the operating system (in addition to for Windows Phone).<ref name="Strategy Analytics"/>

In March 2013, Microsoft also amended its certification requirements to allow tablets to use the 1024×768 resolution as a minimum; this change is expected to allow the production of certified Windows 8 tablets in smaller form factors—a market which is currently dominated by Android-based tablets.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab/> Despite the reaction of industry experts, Microsoft reported that they had sold 100 million licenses in the first six months. This matched sales of Windows 7 over a similar period.<ref>, Reuters, May 7, 2013</ref> This statistic includes shipments to channel warehouses which now need to be sold in order to make way for new shipments.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelregister.co.uk/2013/06/25/garnter_burns_2013_pc_forecast/ |title=Windows 8 hype has hurt PC makers and distributors – Gartner |work=] |date=June 25, 2013 |accessdate=June 29, 2013}}</ref>

In January 2014, ] began a promotion for desktops running Windows 7, saying that it was "back by popular demand". Outside sources have suggested that this might be because HP or its customers thought the Windows 8 platform would be more appropriate for mobile computing than desktop computing, or that they were looking to attract customers forced to switch from XP who wanted a more familiar interface.<ref name=verge-hp7>{{cite web|title=HP brings back Windows 7 'by popular demand'|url=http://www.theverge.com/2014/1/20/5326844/hp-brings-back-windows-7-by-popular-demand|work=The Verge|accessdate=January 20, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2089403/ouch-hp-brings-windows-7-back-by-popular-demand.html |title=Ouch: HP brings Windows 7 'back by popular demand' |date=January 20, 2014 |work=PC World |publisher=IDG |accessdate=January 20, 2014}}</ref>

In February 2014, ] reported that Microsoft would be lowering the price of Windows 8 licenses by 70% for devices that retail under US$250; alongside the announcement that an update to the operating system would allow OEMs to produce devices with as little as 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, critics felt that these changes would help Windows compete against Linux-based devices in the low-end market, particularly those running ]. Microsoft had similarly cut the price of ] licenses to compete against the early waves of Linux-based ]s.<ref name=verge-springupdate>{{cite web|title=Microsoft announces 'spring' update for Windows 8.1|url=http://www.theverge.com/2014/2/23/5438734/microsoft-announces-spring-update-for-windows-8-1|work=The Verge|publisher=Vox Media|accessdate=February 23, 2014}}</ref><ref name=verge-lowercost>{{cite web|title=Microsoft combats Chromebooks by cutting Windows licensing fees by 70 percent|url=http://www.theverge.com/2014/2/21/5435152/windows-8-1-license-fees-cut-by-70-percent-rumor|work=The Verge|accessdate=February 23, 2014}}</ref> Reports also indicated that Microsoft was planning to offer cheaper Windows 8 licenses to OEMs in exchange for setting Internet Explorer's default search engine to ]. Some media outlets falsely reported that the SKU associated with this plan, "Windows 8.1 with Bing", was a variant which would be a free or low-cost version of Windows 8 for consumers using older versions of Windows.<ref name=bn-81bing>{{cite web|title=Leaked help files reveal details on Windows 8.1 Update, and Windows 8.1 with Bing|url=http://betanews.com/2014/03/06/leaked-help-files-reveal-details-on-windows-8-1-update-and-windows-8-1-with-bing/|work=BetaNews|accessdate=March 6, 2014}}</ref> On April 2, 2014, Microsoft ultimately announced that it would be removing license fees entirely for devices with screens smaller than 9 inches,<ref name=verge-free9inch>{{cite web|title=Microsoft making Windows free on devices with screens under 9 inches|url=http://www.theverge.com/2014/4/2/5574146/microsoft-making-windows-free-on-devices-with-screens-under-nine/in/5338899|work=The Verge|accessdate=April 2, 2014}}</ref> and officially confirmed the rumored "Windows 8.1 with Bing" OEM SKU on May 23, 2014.<ref name=ms-windows8withbing>{{cite web|title=Helping our hardware partners build lower cost Windows devices|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2014/05/23/helping-our-hardware-partners-build-lower-cost-windows-devices.aspx|work=Windows Experience Blog|publisher=Microsoft Corporation|accessdate=May 23, 2014}}</ref>

On the information gathered by Net Applications, adoption rate in March 2015 for Windows 8.1 was at 10.55%, while the original Windows 8 was at 3.52%.<ref>{{cite web|title=Operating system market share|url=http://www.netmarketshare.com/operating-system-market-share.aspx?qprid=11&qpcustomb=0|accessdate=April 30, 2015}}</ref>

=== Chinese government ban ===
In May 2014, the ] banned the internal purchase of Windows 8-based products under government contracts requiring "energy-efficient" devices. The ] claimed that Windows 8 was being banned in protest of Microsoft's support lifecycle policy and the end of support for ] (which, as of January 2014, had a market share of 49% in China), as the government "obviously cannot ignore the risks of running OS{{sic}} without guaranteed technical support." However, Ni Guangnan of the ] had also previously warned that Windows 8 could allegedly expose users to ] due to its heavy use of internet-based services.<ref name="reuters-win8ban">{{cite web | url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/05/20/us-microsoft-china-idUSBREA4J07Q20140520 | title=China bans use of Microsoft's Windows 8 on government computers | work=] | accessdate=May 20, 2014}}</ref><ref name="bbc-xpwontdie">{{cite web | url=http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-26432473 | title=XP – the operating system that will not die | work=] | accessdate=March 25, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://sinosphere.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/03/09/china-warns-of-risks-in-plan-to-retire-windows-xp/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=1 | title=China Warns of Risks in Plan to Retire Windows XP | work=] | accessdate=March 24, 2014 | last=Ramzy | first=Austin}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2157220/china-bans-government-purchases-of-windows-8-surprising-microsoft.html | title=China bans government purchases of Windows 8 | publisher=] | work=] | date=May 20, 2014}}</ref>

In June 2014, ] ] (CCTV) broadcast a news story further characterizing Windows 8 as a threat to national security. The story featured an interview with Ni Guangnan, who stated that operating systems could aggregate "sensitive user information" that could be used to "understand the conditions and activities of our national economy and society", and alleged that per ], the U.S. government had worked with Microsoft to retrieve encrypted information. Yang Min, a computer scientist at ], also stated that "the security features of Windows 8 are basically to the benefit of Microsoft, allowing them control of the users' data, and that poses a big challenge to the national strategy for information security." Microsoft denied the claims in a number of posts on the Chinese social network ], which stated that the company had never "assisted any government in an attack of another government or clients" or provided client data to the U.S. government, never "provided any government the authority to directly visit" or placed any ]s in its products and services, and that it had never concealed government requests for client data.<ref name="cnet-clash">{{cite web | url=http://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-china-clash-over-windows-8-and-charges-of-backdoor-spying/ | title=Microsoft, China clash over Windows 8, backdoor-spying charges | publisher=] | accessdate=June 6, 2014 | website=]}}</ref><ref name="bloomberg-spat">{{cite web | url=http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-05/china-s-jiangsu-dropped-windows-8-earlier-this-year-cctv.html | title=Apple, Microsoft Targets of Chinese Media in U.S. Spat | work=] | accessdate=June 6, 2014}}</ref><ref name="cw-retaliates">{{cite web | url=http://www.computerweekly.com/news/2240222085/Microsoft-retaliates-to-Chinas-Windows-8-spying-claims | title=Microsoft retaliates to China's Windows 8 spying claims | publisher=] | accessdate=June 6, 2014 | website=]}}</ref>

==Upgraded versions==
{{main|Windows 8.1}}
An upgrade to Windows 8 known as ] was officially announced by Microsoft on May 14, 2013.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://blogs.technet.com/b/microsoft_blog/archive/2013/03/26/looking-back-and-springing-ahead.aspx |title=Looking Back and Springing Ahead |work=The Official Microsoft Blog: News & Perspectives |publisher=] |date=March 26, 2013 |accessdate=July 17, 2013 |first=Frank X. |last=Shaw}}</ref><ref name="leblanc1">{{cite web|first=Brandon |last=LeBlanc |url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/05/14/windows-keeps-getting-better.aspx |title=Windows Keeps Getting Better |work=Blogging Windows |publisher=Microsoft |date=May 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 15, 2013}}</ref> Following a presentation devoted to the upgrade at ], a public beta version of the upgrade was released on June 26, 2013.<ref name=pcw-81previewenterprise>{{cite web|title=Microsoft releases Windows 8.1 Enterprise preview with VDI, Windows to Go support|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2045561/microsoft-releases-windows-8-1-enterprise-preview-with-vdi-windows-to-go-support.html|work=PC World|accessdate=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=Download and Install the Windows 8.1 Preview|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/download-and-install-windows-81-preview|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=]|authorlink=Paul Thurrott|date=June 26, 2013}}</ref> Windows 8.1 was released to ] on August 27, 2013, and released publicly as a free download through Windows Store on October 17, 2013.<ref name=ms-8.1skus/><ref>{{cite web|last=LeBlanc|first=Brandon|title=Mark your calendars for Windows 8.1!|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/08/14/mark-your-calendars-for-windows-8-1.aspx|work=Blogging Windows |publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=August 14, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url=http://money.cnn.com/2013/08/14/technology/enterprise/windows-8-1-update/index.html | title=Windows 8.1 update coming October 18 | work=CNN Money |publisher=] | accessdate=August 14, 2013}}</ref> Volume license customers and subscribers to ] and ] were initially unable to obtain the RTM version upon its release; a spokesperson said the policy was changed to allow Microsoft to work with OEMs "to ensure a quality experience at general availability."<ref name=ext-81rtm>{{cite web|title=Microsoft confirms Windows 8.1 RTM, but expect a large bug-fixing patch on release|url=http://www.extremetech.com/computing/164983-microsoft-confirms-windows-8-1-rtm-but-expect-a-large-bug-fixing-patch-on-release|work=] |publisher=]|accessdate=September 2, 2013 |first=Sebastian |last=Anthony |date=August 27, 2013 }}</ref><ref name=tnw-msdnsp1>{{cite web|title=Windows 7 SP1 RTM is out for MSDN and TechNet customers|url=http://thenextweb.com/microsoft/2011/02/16/windows-7-sp1-rtm-is-out-for-msdn-and-technet-customers/|work=TheNextWeb.com |publisher=The Next Web |accessdate=September 2, 2013 |first=Alex |last=Wilhelm |date=February 16, 2011}}</ref> However, after criticism, Microsoft reversed its decision and released the RTM build on MSDN and TechNet on September 9, 2013.<ref name=verge-rtmmsdn>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 now available on MSDN and TechNet following developer complaints|url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/9/9/4710174/windows-8-1-msdn-technet-download-now-available|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=September 10, 2013}}</ref>

The upgrade addressed a number of criticisms faced by Windows 8 upon its release, with additional customization options for the Start screen, the restoration of a visible Start button on the desktop, the ability to snap up to four apps on a single display, and the ability to boot to the desktop instead of the Start screen. Windows 8's stock apps were also updated, a new ]-based unified search system was added, ] was given deeper integration with the operating system, and a number of new stock apps, along with a tutorial, were added.<ref name="verge-81handson">{{cite web|first=Evan |last=Rodgers |url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/6/26/4465888/windows-8-1-preview-video |title=Windows 8.1: a first look at what Microsoft is changing |work=] |publisher=] |date=June 26, 2013 |accessdate=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pcw-81review>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 review: The great compromise|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2048508/windows-8-1-review-the-great-compromise.html|work=PC World|accessdate=September 24, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pt-81utility>{{cite web|title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: New Utility Apps|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-new-utility-apps|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|accessdate=September 24, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=In Blue: Windows Store 2.0|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-windows-store-20|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=]|accessdate=June 18, 2013|authorlink=Paul Thurrott|date=June 17, 2013}}</ref> Windows 8.1 also added support for ],<ref name=engadget-81-3dprinting>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 to support 3D printing through native API|url=http://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|work=Engadget|accessdate=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref name=windowsex-3dprinting81>{{cite web|title=3D Printing Support in Windows 8.1 Explained|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|work=Extreme Windows|publisher=Microsoft|accessdate=August 22, 2013}}</ref> ] media streaming, ] printing, and ].<ref name="windows1">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/business/archive/2013/06/03/modern-business-in-mind-windows-8-1-at-teched-2013.aspx |title=Modern Business in Mind: Windows 8.1 at TechEd 2013 |work=Windows for your business |publisher=Microsoft Corporation |date=June 3, 2013 |accessdate=June 3, 2013}}</ref>

Microsoft markets Windows 8.1 as an "update" rather than as a "]" or "upgrade".<ref name=cw-updatenotanupdate>{{cite web|title=When is a Windows update not an update? When it's an upgrade|url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9241315/When_is_a_Windows_update_not_an_update_When_it_s_an_upgrade|work=]|accessdate=October 19, 2013}}</ref> However, Microsoft's support lifecycle policy treats Windows 8.1 similarly to previous Windows service packs: it is part of Windows 8's support lifecycle, and upgrading to 8.1 is required to maintain access to mainstream support and ]s after January 12, 2016. This also means that support for several versions of Internet Explorer Web browser (IE10 or below) will be discontinued.<ref name=cw-81cycle>{{cite web|title=Microsoft mandates Windows 8.1 upgrade|url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9241230/Microsoft_mandates_Windows_8.1_upgrade|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=November 28, 2013}}</ref><ref name=maximumpc-81support/><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Singh|first1=Manish|title=Microsoft Ends Support for Windows 8 on Tuesday|url=http://gadgets.ndtv.com/laptops/news/microsoft-ends-support-for-windows-8-on-tuesday-788864|accessdate=20 January 2016|work=Gadgets 360|date=12 January 2016}}</ref>

Retail and OEM copies of ], and ] can be upgraded through ] free of charge. However, ] customers, TechNet or MSDN subscribers and users of ] must acquire a standalone installation media for 8.1 and install through the traditional Windows setup process, either as an in-place upgrade or clean install. This requires an 8.1-specific product key.<ref name=cw-81updateproblem>{{cite web|title=Small biz admins squawk over Windows 8.1 updates| url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9243345/Small_biz_admins_squawk_over_Windows_8.1_updates| work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=October 18, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Why can't I find the update in the Store?|url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/why-can-t-find-update-store|work=Windows portal|publisher=]|accessdate=October 18, 2013|}}</ref><ref name=supersite-81woes>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Upgrade Woes|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-upgrade-woes|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|accessdate=October 19, 2013}}</ref><ref name=supersite-81enter>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Upgrade from Windows 8 Enterprise|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-upgrade-windows-8-enterprise|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|accessdate=October 21, 2013}}</ref>

==See also== ==See also==
{{portal|Microsoft|Software}} {{portal|Microsoft|Software}}

Revision as of 12:36, 1 April 2016

Windows 8 is good if you have good computer and don't download alot of stuff but if u don't have a good computer and have to download alot of stuff I personally don't recommend it but you might want to get windows 8.1.

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