Versions of the Upcoming Windows 8 OS

Microsoft has already announced last April 17 that the new Windows 8 will only come in four editions: the Home edition (called Windows 8), the Business edition (called Windows 8 Pro), the Windows RT edition for devices with ARM chips (PCs with ARM processors and tablets) and one for big companies that buy in huge amounts.

The Windows RT (devices with ARM processors) will not be able to run the usual 32-bit and 64-bit applications but will only handle touch supported apps (such as touch versions of Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, Excel, and One Note) that's made from Microsoft's programming component for mobile applications, the Windows Runtime (WinRT).

Most consumers who will buy the upcoming Windows 8 OS will be able to choose between the two versions: Windows 8 (for home) and Windows Pro (for businesses). The difference between the Pro and Home version is that the Pro edition has file system encryption, management of domains and virtualization.

The Home version (or Windows 8) can be upgraded from the Starter, Home Basic and Home Premium versions of Windows 7. On the other hand, Windows 8 Pro can be upgraded from Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate.

Built-in Apps that are included in all Windows 8 versions are Mail, People, Messaging, Calendar, SkyDrive, Photos, Video, Reader, and Music. Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, Excel and One Note is only pre-installed on Windows RT devices. The new Internet Explorer 10 is also available on all the Windows 8 versions.

Windows 8 can be upgraded from existing Windows 7 versions for a discounted price of $39.99 until January 31, 2013. The Windows Pro is priced at $199.99 after the $69.99 promo until the 31st of January 2013.

So watch out for the upcoming release of Windows 8 on October 26, 2012 as announced during the main keynote at Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Conference 2012.

G'day!