Windows 8 is here. With upgrades, new Windows 8 PCs and Windows RT devices now released, this is our definitive verdict on the full, finished Windows 8 operating system. If
you've been following Windows 8 through the development process,
especially if you've tried the Release Preview, Windows 8 won't surprise
you. The changes between the Release Preview and RTM aren't major,
except possibly the removal of Aero Glass transparency from desktop
windows and turning Do Not Track (DNT) on by default.
The real difference between this and previous versions is that Windows 8 is finished; it's polished and smooth, with even better performance than in the previews, and none of the rough edges left.
Even the previously disappointing Modern UI-style apps such as Mail, Calendar, Messaging and People are slick, sleek and far more functional.However, there is still work to do with these apps and Microsoft knows it - it released a major update to them on 10 October and several other updates subseqently.
Many of the apps are now useful and engaging rather than frustrating. This is Microsoft putting it all together.
The company has also just released a major 170MB Windows 8 update to improve performance, battery efficiency and power management.
The good: Windows 8 embraces the future wholeheartedly. Log-in and boot times are fast, the apps look gorgeous, and the Sync feature brings seamless transition between devices.
The bad: The learning curve is steep and in-app navigation isn't obvious. There are just too many known unknowns here.
The bottom line: Microsoft makes an aggressive, forward-thinking, and bold statement for the future of PCs with Windows 8, and vast security and speed improvements more than justify the $40 upgrade price.
