Microsoft launches Windows 8 operating system in India

Goodbye desktop, welcome tiles. The Microsoft Windows 8 operating system is finally here. After the official global launch on Thursday, Windows 8 will be available for consumers and businesses worldwide from October 26. Windows 8 is unique for it is the first operating systems that will work across traditional computers as well as tablets and the range of hybrid devices.

In India, 14 OEM partners, including Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HCL, Hewlett Packard, Lenovo, RP Infosystems, Sai Info System, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Wipro and Zenith Computers, will launch Windows 8 devices on a variety of form factors with and without touch.

Over 250 Windows 8 enabled devices, including 23 completely new SKUs of Windows 8 PCs, will be are available across 100 cities and more than 2500 retail stores, said a release.

"With the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft is unveiling a reimagined Windows to the world," said Bhaskar Pramanik, Chairman, Microsoft Corporation India Pvt. Ltd. "Whether you want a tablet or a PC, whether you want to consume or create, whether you want to work or play - Windows 8 delivers a personalised experience that fits your unique style and needs."

"Windows 8 will be available in two versions at retail, Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro. And for our business customers who have signed up for software assurance, Windows 8 Enterprise offers new possibilities in mobile productivity with features like Windows To Go, DirectAccess, and BranchCache, as well as enhanced end-to-end security with features including BitLocker and AppLocker. Launching at the same time is a new member of the Windows family designed for ARM-based tablets, Windows RT, which will be available pre-installed on new devices," said the release.

Microsoft has already lined up over a hundred India-specific apps.

The new Windows 8 interface is a mosaic of live tiles while the OS itself is natively cloud-connected seamlessly syncing all you work across multiple devices. Further, Windows 8 comes with a reimagined browser, Internet Explorer 10 that is touch-ready and delivers a full screen browsing experience.

From June 2, 2012, until January 31, 2013, consumers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 can download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of Rs 1,999.

Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013 can upgrade for an estimated retail price of Rs 699.

The Windows Upgrade Offer is available at www.windowsupgradeoffer.com.