Today the Internet is abuzz about a new video released that shows some of the things they are working on for Windows 8. It showcases a pretty revolutionary interface (at least for Windows) that parallels Windows Phone 7. While I tend to be pretty critical when I see new operating system designs, I really like this one.
Here are my five things I revert too whenever I look at either Operating Systems or applications:
- Less than 3 “clicks” to perform most operations
- Easy navigation for those unfamiliar with it
- Backwards and forwards compatibility
- Hardware compatibility
- Understandable and limited versions
When looking at Windows 8 I see it nailing every one of those points. The “new” interface is smooth, fast, universal, and more importantly, can be disabled. It is clearly designed for tablets and touch screen computers but at the same time Microsoft is cautious and understanding that like Netbooks, might just be a phase. At the same time a user is not locked into the tile interface. They can simply revert to the standard Windows 7 Superbar interface. Personally I see this as critical to the success of Windows 8. There are just some things that work and when they do, there is no reason to “Fix it”. The Superbar is one of those things.
A number of sites today are criticizing Windows 8 because Microsoft is not abandoning the old interface and saying that it is going to cause confusion with the multiple interfaces. These are the same sites that would criticize them for adding another “Tablet” version of Windows with only the tile interface. Microsoft has built its business off of compatibility and the ability to customize its software. This will give purchasers of Windows 8 the added benefit of using the OS on any device they choose and customize it according to the way they want to use it.
Strangely, Microsoft is almost channeling the old-school Linux way of thought, “use it the way you want and customize it the way you want”.
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