Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Microsoft Kills Windows 9…Full Speed Ahead for Windows 10

In a move that few saw coming, the newest version of the Windows Operating System will be named, “Windows 10.”  Windows 9 was the next logical name, but it will never be used. The reason Microsoft gave was, “Windows 7 8 (ate) Windows 9.” Cute, but not the right answer. The real reason, according to management, is that the new Windows is so revolutionary that it needs to be a jump ahead of 9.

Actually I think the #9 is so close to 8, that they really wanted to distance themselves from any confusion about the version. But is it revolutionary? In a way yes, and in another way no. What they have done is bring back enough of the Windows 7 interface so those users who didn’t go to Windows 8 will be able to use Windows 10 right away.

But, it is different from 7 in so many ways. First, the operating system will detect what kind of computer or tablet or phone you are using and set up the interface accordingly. It will determine that if you have a keyboard and mouse, you will see the desktop. If no keyboard, it will figure out you are on a touch system and you will see an interface similar to Windows 8. And, the Start Menu is back, but with some major improvements. Take a look at the stories below and you will see some photos of the new interface.

This may be the final iteration of the Windows Operating System. By that I mean you will no longer see a new Windows every two to three years. Rather, the company will make small incremental changes on a continual basis…similar to what they are doing with Office 365 and what Adobe does with Photoshop. I think it makes good sense.

On the downside, we will not see Windows 10 in April as was predicted. Rather it will come out probably in late summer or early fall of 2013. The demonstration today was focused on Enterprises, Microsoft’s most important customers, revenue-wise. Very early next year, they will demonstrate the new additions for consumers, and in April we will see what they mean about “Universal Apps”…all apps will now run in all devices. Sounds interesting. We will have more on Windows 10 in the near future…but it definitely looks promising.

In an update on a story I ran last time, Apple stated that the revised update for iOS would be released in a few days. About two hours after I published the blog, the revised iOS showed up on my tablet and phone. They got it out fast, but they needed to.

From here on in, I leave the rest of this blog to you…so enjoy. -JRC

 

Technology News and Opinions

Windows 10 is the official name for Microsoft's next version of Windows

Described as Microsoft's "most comprehensive platform ever," Windows 10 will offer a tailored experience for all hardware across a single platform family. And developers can build universal apps that will work everywhere. Here's how Microsoft describes its ambitious goal:

Hands-on with Microsoft's new Windows 10: UI changes that look great at first blush

My first experience with Windows 8 inspired bafflement and frustration. But I walked away from my first few minutes with Windows 10 with a sense of jealousy. It looks like a significant improvement, and I want it on my PC right now.

New MSN Goes Live on Windows, Windows Phone and Web

The biggest change is on the web, where you'll find a completely new, Azure-hosted MSN web portal. Now, over 425 million regular visitors to MSN.com will be able to access this new site version, with links to favorite services.

Apple faces billions in fines in tax avoidance probe

European investigators are set to accuse Apple of receiving "illegal state aid" in Ireland for more than 20 years.

Russia orders Google, Facebook and Twitter to comply with local storage and censorship laws

The U.S. firms have reportedly been told they must store Russians’ local data and metadata on Russian soil, and abide by the same restrictions on free speech to which traditional Russian media must adhere. If they don’t play ball, they may be blocked in the country.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Outlook organization tips: 5 ways to tame the email pile

Adopting these five simple practices will make diving into your inbox less painful—and far less time consuming.

Which Browser is Best? Chrome vs. Firefox vs. Internet Explorer

After several years as top dog, Google Chrome has finally been unseated by a familiar favorite that's been quietly rebuilding its appeal over the last several versions.

Try This Alternative File Manager And Explorer For Windows. It's Free.

Because Windows Explorer is just a program like any other, you can use a different one if you prefer. One such program is XYPlorer, which is currently in its 10th year of production.

Prioritize Your Email with Computer Message Log Labels

If you use your inbox as a to do list, you'll need a good system for keeping track of your tasks and prioritizing them

Keep any application 'always on top' in Windows

Want to keep one window as your focus, but the application doesn't have an option for always on top? Check out this tip on how to use the always on top functionality with any software.

 

Mobile Computing

How to Clear Your Browser History on Android

This article shows you how to clear your browsing history in Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Dolphin on your Android device.

Add a floating app collection to your Android tablet

Using your Android tablet for more than entertainment? Check out Multitasking, a single app that can add the functionality of multiple floating apps to your device.

How to Use Widgets on an iPhone or iPad With iOS 8

iPhones and iPads can now use widgets thanks to iOS 8. In fact, you probably already have some widgets installed — they’re all just disabled by default. Here’s how to enable and use those widgets you already have.

How to Turbocharge Your iOS 8 Web-Surfing Experience

There's something for everyone in this version. Even if you're not quite ready to trade up to the iPhone 6, iOS 8 will make it seem like you have a new phone again.

AT&T doubles data on high-end plans, starting at 15GB tier

The doubled data is part of a limited promotion, but customers who sign up keep that data for as long as they're on the plan

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