Software giant Microsoft launched its new flagship operating system Windows 10 on Wednesday, July 29th. This was Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft Corp.’s first new operating system in three years, and has been designed to work across laptops, desktop and smartphones.
Technology analysts note that this new “all-everything” OS was a big deal for the firm following the disastrous public response to Windows 8, which confused many users by getting rid the start button menu and introducing a totally new layout. Moreover, the initial reviews of Windows 10 from both reviewers and users seems to be largely positive.
Reviewers highlight that Windows 10 includes a slew of brand new features, including an efficient new digital assistant Cortana and a brand new browser named Edge (see you later Internet Explorer!). The Start Menu also reappears with the new OS.
Of note, Windows 10 will be available as a free upgrade for current users of Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1.
New features in Microsoft Windows 10
The new operating system from Microsoft has been a long time coming, but according to most sources, they got it right this time. Windows 10 introduces quite a few new features, including:
New Microsoft Edge browser
Although Internet Explorer is still a part of the system for legacy users, Windows 10 includes Microsoft’s newest browser, Edge, which is a huge improvement on IE in almost every way, and even lets you write notes on a webpage and easily share content with friends.
New digital assistant Cortana
With Microsoft’s new voice-activated digital assistant Cortana, now you can quickly find that expense report from last August or it can help you search for something on the Internet. According to some reviewers, Cortana is not up to Siri’s standards of usefulness yet, but tech experts say that is to be expected, and Cortana will very likely make notable improvements in future upgrades.
Xbox streaming
With Windows 10, no separate TV screen is needed for Xbox streaming, which lets gamers stream from the device to any PC or laptop running the OS.
Snap screens
Windows 10 also makes it possible for users to snap four apps onto one screen, making all kinds of work much easier, and increasing productivity.
Mobile-first, cloud-first ecosystem
Keep in mind that Microsoft designed this OS for a mobile-first, cloud-first ecosystem. When apps from the Windows store are opened in Windows 10, they run just like desktop apps in their own window. That way they can be minimized, maximized, moved around or closed with one simple click.
Multiple desktops
The new OS also allows users to create separate desktops. This means you can now have a separate desktop for every project.
This feature will not only make it easier to focus on getting work done, it will avoid the time wastage of trying to find a file or app in a crowded desktop..
Task View
Microsoft also made it easy to organize and use your desktops with a new Task View feature.
Windows 10 has a new button called “Task View” that permits users to rapidly switch between open files and new desktops they have created, notably improving both efficiency and productivity.
