2012 should be an another remarkable year for Microsoft since it is set to release a new version of Windows which expected to change the way people will look into and think about their computers.
A lot of consumers should see a huge difference from the previous version which is the Windows 7 and one of which is the new Metro user interface where instead of using icons, the desktop will show tiles that changes its appearance as new circumstances take place like, for example, an email is received.
Consumers who are currently using a Windows 7 enabled phone will probably have an idea about how this kind of set up will look like. However, for the computer and laptop use, the interface will work both for touch screen devices and mouse-click computers.
Windows 8 Improvements
Aside from the new look and interface, Windows 8 will also have other improvements such as additional features that facilitate sharing of pictures, documents and other files through social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Other things that can be expected with the Windows 8 are:
- Faster Boot Up and Recovery from Sleep Mode – With the Windows 8 version, the desktop will show up as soon as 6 to 7 seconds after hitting the power button and the same length of time goes for turning on the PC or laptop from sleep mode.
- Availability of Apps for Windows 8 – Windows will be providing apps that can be downloaded from the internet in the same way with enhancing tablets and smartphones with appropriate apps.
- No Need To Replace Computer – Users who want to experience the new Windows 8 can do so even with their current computer as long as it is capable of using Windows 7. Older versions of computers may not work for the new Windows version.
- Collaboration With Online Storage Systems – Windows 8 is designed to have an easy collaboration with Office 365, SkyDrive and Azure.
Windows 8 Tips Keyboard Shortcuts
Since the new Windows 8 will have a whole new look and function, a lot of users may find it difficult to adapt themselves into it. However, here are a couple of tips that new users can keep in mind to help them in familiarizing themselves with the new Windows version:
- In the Start screen you may already start typing through the keyboards in order to make a quick search and launch applications.
- By clicking the search charm, you can find additional applications.
- Shell keyboard shortcuts that will become useful:
o WIN+W for settings search
o WIN+Q for application search
o WIN+F for searching files
o WIN+I for ‘settings’ charm
o WIN+O for rotation clock
o WIN+C to open ‘Start menu’
- Right clicking the mouse will activate the in-app options.
- Using the keyboard, navigating through the tiles can be used with the arrow keys and page up/down keys. Pressing enter will launch a tile.
- Some of the old keyboard shortcuts still works with the Windows 8 such as:
o WIN+D to activate desktop
o WIN+R to open ‘run’
o WIN+E to open explorer
o WIN+L to lock user
- To activate the semantic zoom, you can zoom out the app list in the ‘Search’ through multi-touch.
Conclusion
People always wanted change and innovations when it comes to computer technology and this is what they will certainly get with the Windows 8. However, this new Windows version may be a bit difficult to learn because of its entirely new interface but by keeping in mind these few tips, you will be on your way on settling with Windows 8 in no time.
About the Author:
Kristine M. is a freelance writer and blogger focusing on the latest trend of Windows. When she is not writing about technology, she helps in the blogging and administration activities of the Broadband Expert website.
