A Quick Look at the Windows 8 Handheld Operating System
The Windows 8 Handheld Operating System is already creating a lot of buzz. Although it looks like Windows 8 tablets won’t be available until October 2012, Microsoft has already released the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, which means we already have a good idea as to what the final release will be like.
In the opinion of WhatPhone, Windows 8 might be a good choice for PC users who want to sync their tablets and mobile devices with their computers. When it comes to Windows 8 tablets, Microsoft might be facing an uphill battle to compete with Apple.
As you will see from our top 7 devices on the homepage, Microsoft / Nokia are conspicuous by their absence. This is going to have to be a great operating system if that’s going to change !
Compatibility with Other Devices
The Windows 8 Consumer Preview (‘Win 8 CP’) is currently available for download. Microsoft has stated that it will run on nearly all the existing Windows applications, which means it can be run on your desktop or notebook and be operated with a touchscreen, mouse, or keyboard.
Minimum System Requirements
Win 8 CP minimum system requirements as recommended by Microsoft:
- At least 1GHz processor
- 1GB RAM
- 16GB storage
- WDDM 1.0 or higher drivers
- Directx 9 graphics card or better
- 1024 X 768 pixel resolution
WhatPhone says to check that your system fits the minimum requirements before downloading and installing Win 8 CP.
Home Screen
The Home Screen allows you to display your favourite apps, contacts, and information in digital tiles rather than icons. Users can see email previews and personalise the home screen to display other information, such as weather and stock prices, in the digital icons.
Preview Files Feature
You’ll be able to preview all your files from the Preview Files option. The files are displayed in a digital icon format, allowing you to view them at a glance, to sort them quickly if required, and to import or export selected files at a single touch.
Touch Keyboard
Much like the iPad touch keypad, there’s an onscreen touch keyboard in Win 8 CP. It can be minimised or hidden if required.
WhatPhone says that it’s touch-and-go if Microsoft can compete with Apple in the tablet or Smartphone game. For now, we’ve seen nothing which would make us change our top 7 devices. However, our role at Whatphone is to be constantly comparing new device releases and to keep an open mind about the latest products – because each launch provides the capability for one manufacturer to leap frog the competition. We will watch this space for you !