Windows 8 editions revealed: Two retail, one for ARM, one for enterprise

[m4a4]

I'd say that SNGX1275 is one of the more informed people concerning Windows 8 as he actually understands how it is indeed better than 7 (as in was willing to look past the unfamiliarity of metro).

Metro can be used as a bigger, more customizable "start menu" if you do it properly... (heck, it literally is a start menu as it is there when you start up...)

 

[Tor Oncio]

oh boy.. noone trold MS that windows 8 is a no go ?

 

[Guest]

Its a matter of processor architecture, in the same way x64 applications won't run on an x86 CPU. ARM is a completely different chipset.

 

[Guest]

Windows 8 may be great for tablets however since I'm a desktop user, I'll stick to Windows 7 or Linux.

 

[SNGX1275]

Its a matter of processor architecture, in the same way x64 applications won't run on an x86 CPU. ARM is a completely different chipset.

That is a good reply. In one of my earlier posts in this thread I mentioned how I would like to see the ARM version available for purchase by regular people (not OEMs). But I cited confusion and drivers as issues why it is unlikely to happen.

But shortly after I posted that I was thinking. It isn't impossible to make this work. Apple made the shift in the 90s from 68000 based processors to PowerPC while keeping the same OS and pretty good compatibility with apps. Then they did it again in 2006 with the shift from PowerPC (ppc) to Intel (x86) processors. So its technically possible to write for both architectures, it probably isn't worth Microsoft's time or money to do it for such a small audience that would want to see cross compatibility.

 

[tabbymulla]

A small audience???????????????????

I think desktops and laptops, netbooks have more audience than the 100 times for tablets and if tablet can run all that desktops, laptops and netbooks can run, then u have >100+1 times the audience for the tablet which is definitely worth it.

Oh, I guess microsoft dont have the skill and ability to do such things like Apple can do. Looks like Apple will introduce this technology b4 Microsoft.

 

[SNGX1275]

I don't understand your post.

It is a small audience that would like to run an ARM version on a home PC. Sure there are a lot of people using ARMs on mobile devices, and MS is allowing 8 to run on that. What they aren't doing is selling 8 for ARM to people like us.

And I'm also confused by your last line. I think you are manufacturing outrage here and your dislike of Apple has clouded your mind. Apple already did this way before Microsoft, but that wasn't my point at all. My point was that it is technically feasible to make it happen, but I didn't think that it makes sense for Microsoft to do it because there are relatively few people that would benefit from it. Apple only did it in the past because they were forced to, I don't know the specifics on the 68000 to ppc, but they moved to Intel because they had to. The ppc G4s and G5s just weren't able to compete with the x86 processors from AMD and Intel on a performance, power/heat level anymore.

 

[Vrmithrax]

There is probably another aspect to consider in the ARM version debate... As companies like Intel and AMD are scaling down to compete with ARM on the mobile front, ARM is working on scaling up with intentions of more desktop-ish platforms. So, at some point in the near future, we could be looking at ARM desktops being a real viable possibility. Low cost, low power draw, basically a decent fit for the simpler workstation needs that are out there. Also an interesting possibility in a mainstream HTPC type of product line. So, it may end up that Microsoft really should be considering more cross-over with the ARM version, and making it available to a wider consumer base than just on OEM tablets. ARM is a juggernaut that many underestimate, and if you remove part of the software bias towards x86 that exists (primarily in business), there is potential for a serious shoot-out with the x86 platform in general.

 

[sapo joe]

I'd very much like a "NCMI" edition... "NCMI" standing for NO CRAPPY METRO INTERFACE edition.

Fixed!

LOL

 

[sapo joe]

I'm getting it... The Metro interface works well for VERY STUPID people. The don't know how to use a computer, and have to use an interface with very large colored squares... You know, like kinder garden...

 

[ViperSniper2]

Gonna laugh when ARM Windows Tablets come out competing directly with Android and iOS Tablets and get crushed by a far more versatile and desktop like Windows 8 OS. You know it's coming and nobody really believes that Windows 8 Tablets are going to fail except *****s and other brainwashed morons!

We're talking about a full cross platform experience with the base OS already owning most all people's computing needs with 90% Worldwide Computer Market penetration. No Google or Apple written OS will ever achieve that kind of real world domination anytime soon, if ever! ....and when I can basically run the same OS on my Desktops to Mobiles with both WP8 and Windows 8 installed at the factory under different brands, what do you think they are all going to be pushing you to buy in all the malls and shopping centers? Yeah.... Microsoft is making sure that everyone knows they are still the largest Software Company in the World by far!!!

 

[tabbymulla]

Can Win Pro be installed on Tablets?

 

[tabbymulla]

Will Win 8 enable me to play WOT on a Tablet?

 

[Archean]

WOT = War on Terror ...... arrr I mean ....... World of Tanks?