As we know already, Windows 8 will be ARM-based as opposed to the
traditional x64 architecture. Now we have more details about
specifically how Windows 8 will look, feel, and behave:
- For those familiar with Windows Phone 7, Windows 8 will feel
familiar. Windows 8 highly incorporates the "tiles" design of Windows
Phone 7.
- Windows 8 will support two types of apps/programs. The first
type of programs supported on Windows 8 are the traditional PC
programs, such as the ones that run on Windows 7. In other words,
non-touch based programs. The second type of programs supported on
Windows 8 are mobile-like programs (i.e. touch based and open full
screen) written in HTML5 and Javascript. Internet Explorer 10, which
will be available in Windows 8, has already been designed to be a
mobile-like program.
- There will be support for hardware keyboards and mice
(usable in both types of programs mentioned above), but there will be
plenty of virtual keyboards available to use - including different
keyboards depending on the orientation of your device - and support for
touch gestures for navigation.
- There will be an app store for Windows 8.
- Windows 8 will run on laptops, desktops, and tablets.
- Windows 8 will "use less resources" than Windows
7. There is still a bit of confusion about if Windows 8 will
only work on ARM CPUs or if it will also work on traditional CPUs. No
one really knows.
