Microsoft Windows 8: 10 Things You Need to Know About the OS

On Oct. 25, Microsoft's Windows 8 operating system finally made its official debut after almost a whole year of different releases, updates and a lot of hype. Beginning Friday, Oct. 26, consumers and businesses worldwide will be able to experience all that Windows 8 has to offer, including a beautiful new user interface and a wide range of applications with the grand opening of the Windows Store. As a result of close work with hardware partners, more than 1,000 certified PCs and tablets, including Microsoft Surface, will be available for the launch of Windows 8—making it one of the largest lineups of PCs ever across the Windows ecosystem. "We have reimagined Windows, and the result is a stunning lineup of new PCs," said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. "Windows 8 brings together the best of the PC and the tablet. It works perfect for work and play and it is alive with your world. Every one of our customers will find a PC that they will absolutely love." This eWEEK slide show takes a look at a few of the many new Windows 8 features users will be interested in.