Microsoft has officially rolled out its latest and greatest operating system Windows 10 to users in 190 countries. The new OS has garnered praise from consumers and reviewers alike. One of the best things about Windows 10 is that you don’t have to pay for it if you use genuine Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. The software is jam-packed with new features, establishing a balance between the old and new. Let’s take a look at the five most important new features in Windows 10.
1- Revamped user interface
The new user interface works amazingly well for both PCs and touchscreen devices, unlike Windows 8 that slapped touch interface on traditional PC users. Microsoft has added new windows-switching gestures, allowing power users to create multiple virtual desktops. What’s more, Windows 10 has a dedicated Action Center that replaces the Charms bar in Windows 8. It offers notifications and quick access to common settings. These changes may not seem big. But they add up to offer a pretty good user experience.
2- Start menu is back
The Start menu is sure to please the Windows 7 users. It combines the traditional Start menu of Windows 7 with the Live Tiles of Windows 8. Selecting “All programs” shows you the applications in alphabetical order. But Microsoft has made it easier for users by moving the search box to the toolbar, where it is more easily accessible. The software giant has left behind the folder-based organization in favor of the search-based and favorites.
3- Improved Photos, Mail, Calendar, and Maps apps
Windows 8 had the core apps for email, calendar, maps, etc. But these apps have been improved in Windows 10 so much that you would actually want to start using them. The Redmond-based company has completely revamped the Calendar, Photos, and Mail apps. The new Mail app is fast and efficient. Though Windows Media Player is still there, Windows Media Center, games and gadgets are gone.
4- Microsoft Edge browser
Edge is fast…superfast. In fact, it has performed better than Google Chrome in benchmark tests. It makes finger painting on the web a breeze. You can use “inking” tools such as digital pens and highlighters to scribble, add note or highlight on the web page and share it with others. Edge browser also offers integration with Cortana.
5- Windows 10 brings Cortana to desktop
Windows 10 brings Cortana, a built-in virtual digital assistant. It is Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s Siri and Google Now. When you perform a search, it pulls in information from both your device and the Web. Cortana also crawls your Calendar and Mail to offer updates on travel plans, upcoming events, and other stuff.
