Finally, a peek into Windows 8

Is the reign of Windows over? With improvements in cloud-based computing and mobile tablets storming the market, many pundits have been ready to write its eulogy. However Microsoft doesn't see it that way.

Recent news conference

At a recent news conference, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer boldly insisted that Windows is on the whole a cornerstone of Microsoft's rich personal computing business. And he said the impending Windows 8 innovation will be part of Microsoft "re-imagining" itself.

That's why Windows 8 won't be just another iteration of the original. Windows 1 came on the scene clear back in 1985, and each change since at that time has been little more than a bold tweak. This new system will bear little resemblance to what's gone earlier. It will integrate personal computers, cloud-based computing and the mobile market. How will it do that?

Windows 8 will be much lighter and more versatile than 7. It will run on regular desktop processors from Intel and AMD. However it will additionally run on ARM processors. ARM is the processor research used in most tablets and smartphones.

Startup time for the developer's Windows 8 test units is a speedy eight to 10 seconds. A typical Windows 7 startup time is anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes or more, so that's a dramatic improvement. Plus, once it's running, Windows 8 uses fewer resources for snappier performance.

The system is being designed with mobile gadgets

The system is being designed with mobile gadgets, like tablets, in mind. Several tablets already run Windows 7, nevertheless it isn't a good fit. It's usually slow, clunky and the interface doesn't work so then with a touch screen.

That's why Windows 8 features a dramatic new layout. It is now based on the excellent Metro interface from Windows Phone 7.

Microsoft's solution was not to scuttle the Windows 7 interface. A tweaked version of the Windows 7 interface, called Desktop, is available on demand within the new operating system. Both interfaces can run simultaneously.

Windows 8 is after all in development, and many of these issues could be addressed in the interim. Microsoft isn't even hinting at an unveiling date, nevertheless mid-2012 looks likely. You can count on me to keep you informed as Windows 8 nears public launch.

National talk radio show about computers

Kim Komando hosts a national talk radio show about computers and the Internet, which can be heard on News Talk 780 KOH every Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m.