Windows 10: List of New Features

The Windows 10 press conference held on Wednesday was a central event in the tech world.

Microsoft announced that it would upgrade Windows 7 and 8.1 for users for free, which was a big move, but more importantly, Microsoft gave us a better look at what the upcoming OS will look like.

Microsoft revealed that Windows 10 will include:

• A revamped Start Menu: The new design uses more fluid animations and is customizable. Users can switch between a full-screen menu and a sidebar, ala Windows 7.
• Action Center: Users will have control of features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth via the Action Center tab on the right side of the screen. The Center will also act as a notification center, alerting users to any new software updates, such as email, social media or necessary software updates.
• Continuum: This little piece of software makes it easier to transition devices like the Surface Pro from keyboard mode to tablet mode. Whenever users remove the keyboard and mouse from a device, the computer will naturally transition to tablet mode.
• Cortana: As expected, Microsoft incorporated the virtual assistant Cortana into Windows 10. Cortana will be in the Windows 10 Taskbar, a click away from answering your question. Her functionality will be similar to her phone mode, but with some computer-centric functionality.
• Inter-device interaction: Microsoft has enabled Windows 10-powered computers to interact with other Windows 10-enabled devices. Any notifications one will get on their computer will appear on a synced Windows smartphone and vice versa.
• Built-in Apps: Microsoft decided that instead of offering the normal Microsoft Office package for Windows 10 users, it would incorporate the software directly into the OS. This update will include programs like Powerpoint, Microsoft Word, Onedrive and Excel. These programs will also be available on the phone and smaller tablets and will receive a major UI upgrade.
• DirectX 12: All Windows 10 computers will receive DirectX 12, which will improve the computer's ability to handle high-level graphics.
• Cross Platform Play: A select collection of games will be available to play on both the Xbox One and the PC. PC gamers will be able to play with Xbox players and vice versa. Players will also be able to stream Xbox One footage to either their tablet or Windows 10 PC if they desire. Players can then use the tablet or PC to control the game, but can only stream games locally, according to The Verge.

Windows Insiders should see new versions of the OS for their tablets and computers a week after the event. Windows Phone users should see the first build of Microsoft 10 on their phone sometime in February.

Tags

Microsoft, Windows 10, Updates, Software