Windows 8 released for worldwide distribution from 26 Oct 12

It is about more then one year we are listening about Windows 8 , and finally from 26th October 2012 Windows has been available worldwide for downloading and purchasing.

Most of people has been checked out its new features by downloading and testing it into their PC’s. Microsoft has made total user interface as per need of future growing touch pads and touch screen devices. It has the tile interface for accessing many apps and even your desktop is one of the tile now. For general windows users it may look some difficult to access this interface as they are very much used to windows  traditional desktop interface.

Win 8 have many new features, you may access cloud service skydrive directly from your PC, its have lots of apps as like iOS and android. Further developers are creating many apps for every need. For example your webcam, media player, picture viewer , calender and contacts , skype everything has now become an apps. It also have app store so that you can download free and paid apps as like in your Android mobile.

Win 8 has very fast startup and shut down time so that you can start your work very fast, also it has enhanced file copying speed. All your old windows 7 programs are still compatible with win 8. Also your Windows 7 drivers are compatible with win 8, although windows 8 having plenty of drivers already installed.

Win 8 is available for download to upgrade existing PCs in more than 140 markets and 37 languages here , and at retail locations around the world. At retail stores, Win 8 will be available in two primary versions — Win 8 and Win 8 Pro, as well as Windows 8 Enterprise for large organisations. Launched at the same time was a new member of the Windows family, Windows RT, which is designed for ARM-based tablets and is pre-installed on new devices. In addition to Microsoft Office 2013, Windows RT is designed exclusively for apps in the new Windows Store. Windows 8 features the new Start screen that gives people one-click access to the apps and content they use the most. It also features an entirely new Internet Explorer 10 that is designed for touch and built-in cloud capabilities with SkyDrive.

Consumers can learn here about the large array of Windows 8 devices available and find the one that best fits their needs. More information on the great offers around the world is available here.

In addition to the range of new Windows-based devices available, customers can also upgrade their existing PCs. Till the end of January, customers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 are qualified to download an upgrade to Win 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$39.99 (approximately Rs 2,150). And eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013, in more than 140 markets can download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$14.99 (approximately Rs 800) with the Windows Upgrade Offer, available here.

If you are planning to upgrade your existing windows then remember that in win 7 to win 8 upgrade you can preserve your installed programs otherwise in windows XP and vista you have to install them again.  First download and run the Upgrade Assistant program. This will essentially perform a few checks on your computer and will also suggest a list of software programs / hardware devices that may not be compatible with Win 8.

Next you need to order your Windows 8 upgrade pack right inside the installation wizard of upgrade assistant. Choose the “Checkout” option, enter your Credit Card details and the next screen will show your Wind 8 product key that you may need at the time of installation. You don’t have to write then down on paper and Microsoft will also send a receipt of your order and the Windows serial number to your email address.

If you want to install windows 8 alongside with your existing windows you can see my this post how to install win 8 dual boot with your existing windows.