Windows 10

Microsoft have announced their latest OS, Windows 10. We have listed some of the key quality of life changes.

What happened to Windows 9?

The first question you might ask is, whats happen to Windows 9? The official reason is Microsoft is changing the update model to more incremental updates rather than major version releases and wanted to start with a number with more 'importance'. The actual reason is that some legacy applications originally written for Windows 95 and 98 used 'Windows 9' string to check which version of Windows they were installed on, leading to a potential conflict if Microsoft released a new version '9'. So skipping Windows 9 appears to be a way of fend off any compatibility issues with old applications.

Windows 10, the last big update

With Microsoft changing to incremental updates, the likelihood of a move to - or at least the option of - a subscription model is pretty much guaranteed. Updates will be purchased through their app store. It will be interesting to see if this changes Microsoft's volume licensing model as that would have a big impact on businesses.

Snap Assist

The tile interface has been integrated in to the start menu and the new appearance is likely going to appease those who were unsatisfied with the interface introduced in Windows 8. The new menu structure is clean and intuitive and a welcome improvement.

Task View

Microsoft have improved how you can manage the organisation of your apps on screen. This will be especially useful on larger monitor's allowing you to easily snap two or more apps in to place on one screen.

Virtual Desktop

Virtual desktop will allow you to run several different desktop displays at once, for example on one display you might have Outlook and Sage, on another virtual display you could have PowerPoint and Excel. This allows you to flip between multiple work flows without having to minimise and resize your applications.

The same OS for all hardware

Windows 10 is designed to work on all platforms, from embedded devices, Smartphones, Tablets, Xbox and PC. This is definitely the right direction to go, as long as it allows the flexibility and functionality for enterprise and business users.

Want to know more?

At Datcom we already have a couple of PC's using Windows 10 so we're ready for the questions you might ask. If you would like trial Windows 10 for your own business or just want to know more, contact your account manager.