For the first time I am very excited to say that the reason I didnt post anything was because of my lack of knowledge of the thing, instead of being lazy. A few day ago I found out that Microsoft has release the Windows 8 consumer preview. Now I have been thinking about getting it installed in my Acer Iconia W500, but the developer preview just didnt convince me. I have installed Windows 8 consumer preview in my little laptop, and I am by far satisfied and cannot wait for the full version is released.
From the new UI to the maximum potential of the touchscreen, the Windows 8 is built for portable computers. For a first timer, the new Metro UI may be a bit confusing - but after a few minutes with it, you will get the hang of it and ready to be productive. Now How to install Windows 8 is posted here (Link will send you to a different website).
Anywho, lets get into business; although this is still a preview version, Windows 8 runs very smooth on the Acer W500. Please note there are still some bugs that makes some app non-fucntional, but it doesnt cripple the computer. There are 2 types of UI for Windows 8, the normal "desktop" view and the Metro UI. The Metro UI is the selling point of Windows 8 - its really fun to play with and touch friendly, the "desktop" view is where you do your normal work, it is also where normal programs (not obtain from the market place) will be displayed.
*I am not going too deep into the functionality or how-tos in this section, it mainly going to be highlights.*
Metro UI is basically your new "start" button, it has all the programs/apps you installed lined up in a beautiful way. Some apps are even interactive before you open it (weather app, Email app); Normal programs installed are pinned as an icon of it. it is to your desire of what programs/app is visible in your main screen, other programs can still be access through the "all apps" option on the bottom of the screen.
Desktop view is where you get most of your work done as programs like Microsoft office is opened on this section. It is really confusing at first because the usual start button disappeared (in exchange with the "side-bars"). Once you get the hang of it, Desktop view basically works like window 7 or below.
Perks:
- Side-Bar: you can hover you mouse to teh top or bottom of the screen to activate the side-bar. For touchscreen, you can drag the side bar out. The side bar provides utilities as it shows previous programs opened and a quick glance at your settings.
- Left: Shows most recent apps opened, the bottom will always navigate to the Metro UI
- Right: shows your utilities (time, battery, etc), it also lets you set up power options (brightness, Wi-fi, et.)
- Windows Buttom: The windows button on your keyboard changed functionality, pressing it will bring you back to the last app opened.
- New Locked screen: A main page that gives an overview of your computer before logging in (Shows email, battery level)
- Picture unlock: a new feature lets you create gesture on a picture to unlock your account.
NoteWorthy:
(NOTE: the market place is still lack of apps, but there are already some that is worth having)
- Internet Explorer: This runs differently then the desktop version. First of all its touch-screen friendly, full screen and pretty good in speed. Sadly, the flash player is still pretty bad - and anything playing will be "paused" when you minimize the app (even music)
- Calendar: Say good bye to the Outlook, this calendar will seamlessly sync with any calendar account you link it with (Google or live).
- Speedy boot time! I always hate turning my computer off because it will take forever to boot them back on, well that wont be a problem with Windows 8
Please note that this is still the consumer preview, that means certain bugs are still available (although i rarely encounter them) and the app store is still lack of content. Do not make this discourage you to try it because it is a pretty interesting change. Best of Luck!
0 comments:
Post a Comment