Windows 8 , initially released for tablet computers as the ‘Re-Creation of Windows’, will still run on desktops and laptops, although we can expect a little time before we see the operating system actually on those devices. This has a few implications for students as they are always looking for cheaper personal computing options – other than the iPad, which has been a real economic success (more expensive and yet selling extremely well). Personal computing has not seen any real price drop despite many years. Students are the business people of the future. They are the people who invented Google, and they are the ones who took the Facebook idea to the next level.
- Tablet OS. Tablets have become very popular with students and professionals alike. Obviously, this is the reason why Microsoft has launched the OS as an OS for tablets that works on desktops and laptops too. This means those students in business courses , marketing courses, and the like can use affordable tablets instead of costly laptops and desktops as they study. We all know Microsoft is the biggest choice for business, while students are choosing the iPad and the Chromebook for different reasons.
- Speed and Battery Life. The Re-Creation of Windows is very fast. Apparently it is just as fast as the iOS. What this means is you will get more life out of the battery of your laptop, netbook and tablet. This is very important for students and all consumers alike. You will be able to use your device longer, and the long-term life of the battery will also be increased. This is a huge bonus for all users. Longer battery time is the essence of mobile computing. Now all we need to see is more manufacturers put more effort into battery construction and development.
- App Store. While there is an application for everything available on Windows, and we have seen more applications available than on any other operating system, many of those applications have been a hidden way to get malware and viruses onto our computers. An application store gives us a safe way to get applications and a convenient place to know where to get them. The Windows 8 download continues to replicate the lessons taught by Apple. We can’t blame them for doing this because Apple has made the right moves. There is nothing wrong with replicating what works.
While mobile computing is essential for today’s student (they get around to different classes, and they get around all day long), we are yet to see real devices that can power them through solid use all day. When claims are made by manufacturers regarding battery life, they are not talking about heavy use. Use any smartphone heavily and you will see the battery die in a matter of an hour. When we see this change, we will see a huge improvement. Let’s hope after an install of Windows 8, we will see that user time increase.
