The ultimate Windows service pack
Posted on 07/21/2015 9:25:47 AM PDT by SeekAndFind
Windows 10 will be the last edition of Microsoft's operating system, so it's no wonder that the tech giant has gone all out to make it the best OS to date. Microsoft has already revealed features, such as a smarter Cortana and Xbox integration, that may appeal to existing Windows users and lure those on other operating systems. Here are 10 reasons why Windows 10 could effortlessly pull you away from your Mac or Chrome operating system when it debuts for PCs and tablets on July 29.
1. Cortana is back and better than ever
Forget Siri and all of the other personal assistant bots out there. Cortana is back from her greatly exaggerated death in Halo 4, and she's better than ever. A Microsoft blog post that outlined the features of Windows 10, Cortana was branded as the "world's first truly personal digital assistant." The tool can even learn your preferences to provide relevant content as you watch media or set reminders. If you once envisioned a world operated by intelligent robots, the future is now.
2. Microsoft edge may be the next best
If you're suspicious of Google stealing your information through Chrome or tired of Safari's inefficiencies, get ready for Microsoft Edge. The new browser, set to debut with Windows 10, is integrated with Cortana. This means you'll receive streamlined content based on your preferences and browsing habits. Edge may just outdo Google when it comes to guessing your next move on the Internet, which is a good thing - right?
On top of one-upping Google's search engine, Microsoft promises Edge has been built as a safer browser. A new Passport feature, for example, will add a layer of authentication to ensure you are actually you when visiting secure sites. Edge also incorporates a browser and Windows Shell SmartScreen, which will flag users of malicious software installs.
3. Its heaven for Xbox gamers
With Windows 10, Microsoft very obviously made an attempt to please gamers. For the first time, Xbox will officially be integrated with the operating system when it debuts, which means that everything from gameplay recording to streaming can be done in sync with any Windows 10 device. It's a neat feature that will help reduce the number of family feuds and fights with friends over who gets to use the big-screen TV.
4. OneDrive makes life so much easier
Microsoft has pushed OneDrive hard with its promotion of Windows 10, and for good reason. OneDrive has a lot of features worth acknowledging, aside from its basic storage capabilities. Windows users are able to begin a project on one device, then carry it over to another Windows, Android or iOS device, thanks to OneDrive's synchronization over the cloud.
Microsoft also gives 15GB of storage to Windows users for free, and unlimited storage to Office 365 subscribers. To be fair, Google also offers 15GB of free Drive space, but either way it's better than the measly 5GB that comes with Apple's iCloud.
5. Hello Microsoft security
Windows Hello is a new security feature that focuses on making sure you are you. It greets users and allows them to log into their device with their face, iris or finger.
It's the latest HAL 9000-like software from Microsoft that could get tech geeks squealing in delight. Not to mention it's also a pretty advanced security measure compared to old school passwords.
6. The Windows Store has gone better
The Windows Store didn't always have the latest and greatest apps, even if you were just looking for something basic to use for daily productivity or socialization. However, it's come a long way since the beginning with new additions such as Drawboard PDF and GoToMeeting. Now, Microsoft has promised that its apps will be ready to wow you come Windows 10.
There have been upgrades to the Mail, Calendar, Music and Photos apps, for starters. Additionally, Microsoft says app installation and uninstallation is easier than ever. There's also a wider range of payment methods available to users around the world.
7. The rise of 2-in-1 devices
It's no secret that 2-in-1 devices are on the rise. Shipment of these products is expected to rise from 235 million in 2015 to 269 million by 2019. With that in mind, Microsoft is preparing for it with the development of Continuum.
Continuum will allow 2-in-1 devices to smoothly transition from tablet-to-PC mode (and vice versa), allowing you to work in any circumstance.
8. Office apps are a cha--cha-changing
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 users will have access to new universal Windows applications for Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Additionally, it's worth noting that the apps will all be available for purchase separately, meaning you don't need to invest in the whole Microsoft Office suite if you only want one program.
For Windows 10, these apps were designed with touch controls from the ground up. There are now touch-first controls in Excel on Windows 10 for editing without a mouse or keyboard. As more devices come with touchscreens, this may become a must-have feature for consumers.
9. Selective business updates make IT life easier
With Windows 10, Microsoft will roll out the Windows Update for Business. This update will come with distribution rings, where IT professionals can choose which devices receive updates. Additionally, IT will be able to decide when updates should - and should not - occur, according to specific time frames.
Peer-to-peer delivery will enable IT to roll out updates in line with the various bandwidths of company branches. Finally, the Enterprise Mobility Suite and System Center can be integrated seamlessly with the update as well. Overall, Microsoft aims to reduce management costs with the Windows Update for Business.
10. Windows 10 tackles cyber security concerns
Like Windows 8 and 8.1 before it, Windows 10 will come with Windows Defender, the company's free anti-malware protection. Microsoft has also stressed its commitment to provide ongoing security updates for the supported lifetime of its devices. It's a far cry of the built-in security that comes on Macs and Chrome OS, which is to say none really.
Whaaaat?
Why then should I upgrade?
Just loaded new Linux install on my primary PC. Last time I touched it was 5 years ago.
Life of a Windows install used to be 3 years, with malware what it is now is probably 1/2 of that.
I considered Open BSD for my machine before I reinstalled Linux because of security. But when I looked at the software pool for Debian Linux, I decided to go with it.
Had been using Xubuntu for a number of years. Primarily because of XFCE window manager support.
Had trouble upgrading that install and finally did clean install on Deb with XFCE. Real pain to save the computer data before the install, but it was house cleaning time.
Now sure it how I feel about this install yet. Basically the same base.
What is after 10?
I have left every ONE of them, kicking and screaming .... since W98SE
Wait ... don't tell me ...
11?
I'll give you 2 non-techy reasons:
1) Windows 10 is free
2) Windows 10 drops the Start Screen that everyone hated in Win8.
It’s their last real kernel instantiation. They’ll basically be updating the Windows 10 kernel ad infinitum. It speaks to one of two things:
1) Redmond finally gets it
2) Someone’s making lofty promises
They’ve locked the kernel down pretty tight since Server 2012/Windows 8. If 10 is an extension of that PLUS they’re doing away with legacy x86 support, it could truly be the last time they need to create a new OS from the ground up.
It looks like they are making Windows a utility, where you pay for time on it.
I should probably buy a computer with Windows 10 preloaded, since it would be the last computer I buy. I do not want to pay for time used. I’d rather pay a premium for owning it.
Speak for yourself. I love the Start screen now. It's uncluttered my life. I don't understand how people still use the garbage Start menu of old.
I hate that start screen; good reason.
RE: “What is after 10?”
Wait ... don’t tell me ...
11?
________________________
You can’t be sure of that. There was no Windows 9.
They will call the next version of Windows something else.
It is just like Internet Explorer, which M$ has announced they will no longer make. Instead, they are making a new browser called Spartan.
Not trying to hijack your article, but...... (from yesterday)
Patch! Microsoft emits emergency fix for THIRD Hacking Team hole (Critical Windows Vulnerability) - http://www.freerepublic.com/tag/windows/index?tab=articles
I'm sorry, Dave, I'm afraid I can't do that.
Just like MS-DOS 5.0.
The ultimate Windows service pack
I’m not sure I want to upgrade to Windows 10, do I have a virus?
Wow... the check must have cleared.
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