Last Updated on November 14, 2019 by Mathew Diekhake

After months of speculation and rumors as to the launch date of the all new Windows 8, it is finally here! At their official press event held in New York yesterday, Microsoft launched Windows 8 to the world giving users the ability to upgrade to the latest OS which may be better known as Metro.

After what seems like an eternity (well 17 years almost is right?) Windows has finally said goodbye to the ‘Start Bar’ and opted for a more modern App based UI filled with colorful tiles and a new Windows Store which will be available in 37 different languages in 140 markets across the world.

Windows 8 has been one of the most highly anticipated releases this year, even with the recent release of Apples iPad Mini which was launched merely days before Microsoft’s event. But no shadow has been cast over the latest offerings from the company lead by Chief Executive Steve Ballmer. Seeking to make a mark in what has been dubbed a ‘Post-PC era’ the brand new User Interface which has taken many months and much blood, sweat, and tears to perfect are truly magnificent.

Microsoft wasted no time showing it off using the aid of their business affiliates PCs such as Del, ASUS, HP, and Samsung.

The latest Windows 8 will be available for pre-existing Windows 7, Vista or Windows XP users through an update which is available for all people who have purchased a Windows 7 PC between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013. If you qualify then your next step is to head over to website windowsupgradeoffer.com before February 28, 2013, and make your claim. Microsoft will then send you an email in return with a code for you to use when you purchase the Windows 8 upgrade once it becomes available.

Microsoft Windows 8 was not all Microsoft had to offer consumers today and held a second show only an hour after the first announcing the official launch of Surface RT hitting shelves today. This hybrid slab which was announced in June will come pre-installed with Windows RT, a limited version of Windows 8. It will be interesting to see how this device which is less than a PC but more then a tablet will be received. There are some significant limitations which may cause some upturned noses such of the exclusion of Outlook and Windows Media Player. But it is also a unique product and the first of its kind.

Will the new OS which has been developed to use on PC’s, tablets and phones be enough to win back some of their market share from competitors such as Google and Apple?

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