Microsoft announces Windows 8 Editions

Breaking away from the rumors and speculations, Microsoft has just announced the names of the different editions of the upcoming Windows 8 OS when it is released to the market. Four editions will be released, namely Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro, Windows RT and Windows 8 Enterprise.

Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro will have x86 and 64 editions for PCs and tablets. It will include features such as an updated Windows Explorer, Task Manager, better multi-monitor support, and the ability to quickly switch languages. Windows 8 Pro will be more packed and will include added features for encryption, virtualization, PC management and domain connectivity. Microsoft will also include Windows Media Center but as an economical â€œmedia packâ€ add-on.

Windows RT (RunTime), also known as Windows on ARM or WOA, will come pre-installed on PCs and tablets powered by ARM processors. It will be touch-optimized so a touch version of Microsoft Office as well as apps can be expected. App development will also be one of the main focuses of Microsoft for the RT version, aiming for a â€œnew generation of cloud-enabled, touch-enabled, web-connected apps of all kinds.â€

Check out the chart below for a quick break down of Windows 8 features (not to be considered as an exhaustive list):

Like any previous versions of Windows, and Enterprise version will also be available for enterprise customers with Software Assurance agreements. Windows 8 Enterprise will have all the features of Windows 8 Pro but with extras for IT organization, advanced security, virtualization, new mobility scenarios, and more.

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18 Comments

ocommon · 14 years ago

Can’t wait to pirate it..oops..i mean buy it :p

JC dela Cruz · 14 years ago

Hi Mr.Abe,

I just want to comment on some part of Louise’s report:

True, four editions or what we commonly called as SKU’s of Windows 8 will be on board but do not include Windows RT as part of Windows 8 because the ARM version is the “new member” of Windows family (e.g Windows Phone, Windows CE, etc.) So, what will be fourth one? It is the language-specific Windows 8 edition (e.g Windows 8 China) which is intended for emerging market.

Another thing, don’t get the readers confused on what Windows RT really means, Mr. Louise said it as “RunTime” (unless Microsoft called it that way). NO. It is not, Windows Runtime is the backbone of Windows 8 Metro-Style development platform.

Please double check the news before posting.

Thanks.

Carl Bytes · 14 years ago

The metro UI-touch optimized is is the real upgrade from Windows 95’s start menu :)

This is the real upgrade from Windows 95’s start menu :)

Paul · 14 years ago

Finally the upcoming netbooks won’t have to deal with that awful Windows Starter edition, they’ll get the same Windows as every other laptop.

PHsmash · 14 years ago

ang panget ng windows phone os nila, medyo magulo, cguro dlang ako snay, d xa hawig ng android at iOS hehe

SpiderWak · 14 years ago

disappointing kung hawig sa iOS at Android..

jonaflormicfren · 14 years ago

Another accomplishment to be tested and criticize..

JmBalicano · 14 years ago

It’s a good thing they decided to simplify and cut down on the number of editions to make things less confusing. Things were just insane on Windows 7.