Editing Esphosh Software 8

{{Short description|Operating system released by Microsoft in 2012}}
{{Use American English|date=November 2012}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2021}}
{{Infobox OS
| name = Windows 8
| logo = Windows 8 logo and wordmark.svg
| logo_size = 200px
| screenshot = Windows 8 Start Screen.png
| caption = Windows 8 [[Start menu#Third version|start screen]], showing the default live tile arrangement
| version of = [[Windows NT]]
| developer = Microsoft
| license = [[Trialware]], [[Microsoft Software Assurance]], [[MSDN subscription]], [[DreamSpark]]
| website = {{URL|1=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231172223/https://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/meet?ocid=GA8_O_WOL_Hero_Home_8Here_Null|2=Windows 8}} (archived at [[Wayback Machine]])
| source_model = {{ubl
| [[Proprietary software|Closed-source]]
| [[Source-available software|Source-available]] (through [[Shared Source Initiative]])<ref>{{cite web|title=Shared Source Initiative|url=https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sharedsource/default.aspx|work=microsoft.com|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=October 28, 2013}}</ref>
  }}
| supported_platforms = [[IA-32]], [[x86-64]]
| marketing target = Consumer and business
| kernel_type = [[Hybrid kernel|Hybrid]]
| userland = [[Windows API]], [[NTVDM]]
| updatemodel = [[Windows Update]], [[Windows Server Update Services]]
| discontinued = no
| first_release_date = {{start date and age|2012|8|1}}<ref>[https://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/08/01/windows-8-has-reached-the-rtm-milestone.aspx Windows 8 has reached the RM milestone] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919090607/http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/08/01/windows-8-has-reached-the-rtm-milestone.aspx|date=September 19, 2012}}. August 1, 2012</ref>
| first_release_url = 
| GA_date = {{start date and age|2012|10|26}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/10/25/windows-reimagined-windows8.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121027202517/https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/10/25/windows-reimagined-windows8.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 27, 2012|title=Windows reimagined. #Windows8|work=Blogging Windows}}</ref>
| GA_url = 
| release_version = 6.2.9200
| release_date = {{Start date and age|2016|12|13}}
| release_url = 
| preview_version = 
| preview_url = 
| preceded_by = [[Windows 7]] (2009)
| succeeded_by = [[Windows 8.1]] (2013)
| support_status = ''All editions (except [[Windows Embedded 8 Standard]] and PCs with the [[Windows 8.1]] update installed):<br />''{{Plainlist|
* Unsupported as of January 12, 2016<ref name=maximumpc-81support>{{cite web|title=Microsoft Support Lifecycle, Windows 8|url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-8|work=Microsoft|access-date=January 21, 2023}}</ref>
}}<br />''[[Windows Embedded 8 Standard]]:''{{Plainlist|
* Mainstream support ended on July 10, 2018.<ref name=embedded-life>{{cite web|title=Product lifecycle Windows 8 Embedded|url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/search?alpha=windows%208%20embedded|access-date=August 21, 2020|website=support.microsoft.com}}</ref>
* Extended support ended on July 11, 2023.<ref name=embedded-life />}}
  }}
{{Windows 8}}

'''Windows 8''' is<!--Do NOT change to "was". This violates [[MOS:TENSE]], which specifies that all articles on operating systems are written in present tense, even if discontinued.--> a major release of the [[Windows NT]] [[operating system]] developed by [[Microsoft]]. It was [[Software release life cycle#Release to manufacturing (RTM)|released to manufacturing]] on August 1, 2012, and was made available for download via [[Microsoft Developer Network|MSDN]] and [[Microsoft TechNet|TechNet]] on August 15, 2012.<ref name="verge-81handson" /> Nearly three months after its initial release, Windows 8 finally made its first retail appearance on October 26, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/windows-8s-delivery-date-october-26-7000001158/|title=Windows 8's delivery date: October 26|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=July 18, 2012|access-date=September 17, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 introduced major changes to the operating system's platform and [[graphical user interface|user interface]] with the intention to improve its user experience on [[tablet computer|tablets]], where [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]]  competed with [[mobile operating system]]s such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]] and [[iOS]].<ref name=asd-win8ad /> In particular, these changes included a touch-optimized [[Windows shell]] and [[Start menu#Third version|start screen]] based on Microsoft's [[Metro (design language)|Metro]] design language, integration with online services, the [[Windows Store]], and a new keyboard shortcut for [[screenshot]]s.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Paul |first1=Ian |title=How to Take Screenshots in Windows 10, 8, and 7 |url=https://www.lifewire.com/take-screenshot-windows-7-8-10-4049964 |website=Lifewire |access-date=7 April 2023 |language=en}}</ref> Many of these features were adapted from [[Windows Phone]]. Windows 8 also added support for [[USB 3.0]], [[Advanced Format]], [[near-field communication]], and [[cloud computing]]. Additional security features – including built-in [[antivirus software]], integration with [[Microsoft SmartScreen]] phishing filtering, and support for [[UEFI#Secure Boot|Secure Boot]] on supported devices – were introduced. Windows 8 is the first version of Windows to support the ARM architecture under the [[Windows RT]] branding. No CPUs without [[Physical Address Extension|PAE]], [[SSE2]] and [[NX bit|NX]] are supported in this version.

Windows 8 received a mostly negative reception. Although the reaction to its performance improvements, security enhancements, and improved support for touchscreen devices was positive, the new user interface of the operating system was widely criticized for being confusing and unintuitive, especially when used with a keyboard and mouse instead of a touchscreen. Despite these shortcomings, 60 million licenses were sold through January 2013, a number that included both upgrades and sales to [[OEM]]s for new PCs.<ref>{{cite web|last=Foley|first=Mary Jo|url=https://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-60-million-windows-8-licenses-sold-to-date-7000009549/|title=Microsoft: 60 million Windows 8 licenses sold to date|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=January 8, 2013|access-date=March 24, 2013}}</ref>

Microsoft released [[Windows 8.1]] in October 2013, which addressed some aspects of Windows 8 that were criticized by reviewers and [[early adopter]]s and also incorporated improvements to various aspects of the operating system.<ref name="FT_7-5-13">{{cite news|last=Waters|first=Richard|date=May 7, 2013|title=Microsoft prepares rethink on Windows 8 flagship software|work=[[Financial Times]]|url=https://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/330c8b8e-b66b-11e2-93ba-00144feabdc0.html}}</ref> Windows 8 was ultimately succeeded by [[Windows 10]] in July 2015. Support for [[Software_release_life_cycle#RTM|RTM]] editions of Windows 8 ended on January 12, 2016, and with the exception of Windows Embedded 8 Standard users, all users are required to install the Windows 8.1 update. Mainstream support for the Embedded Standard edition of Windows 8 ended on July 10, 2018, and extended support ended on July 11, 2023.

==Development==

===Early development===
Development started in 2009 while Microsoft was finishing work on [[Windows 7]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Steven Sinofsky, Tami Reller, Julie Larson-Green, Antoine Leblond, and Michael Angiulo: Windows 8 Consumer Preview|work=News Center|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|url=https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/exec/ssinofsky/2012/02-29Windows8.aspx|access-date=April 27, 2012|date=February 29, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130206154805/https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/exec/ssinofsky/2012/02-29Windows8.aspx|archive-date=February 6, 2013}}</ref> At the [[Consumer Electronics Show]] in January 2011, it was announced that the next version of Windows would add support for [[ARM architecture|ARM]] [[System on a chip|System-on-chips]] alongside the existing [[x86|32-bit]] processors produced by vendors, especially [[AMD]] and [[Intel]]. Windows division president [[Steven Sinofsky]] demonstrated an early build of the port on prototype devices, while Microsoft CEO [[Steve Ballmer]] announced the company's goal for Windows to be "everywhere on every kind of device without compromise."<ref name=engadget-armbuild>{{cite web|title=Microsoft confirms ARM support is coming in Windows, will play nice with SoCs too|date=January 5, 2011 |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/microsoft-confirms-arm-support-is-coming-in-windows-will-play-n/|publisher=Engadget|access-date=May 21, 2013}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-cesunveil>{{cite web|title=CES: Windows to run on ARM chips, says Microsoft|url=https://www.zdnet.com/ces-windows-to-run-on-arm-chips-says-microsoft-3040091325/|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=November 21, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=https://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2011/jan11/01-05SOCsupport.mspx|title=Microsoft Announces Support of System on a Chip Architectures From Intel, AMD, and ARM for Next Version of Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=January 5, 2011|access-date=January 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407172917/https://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2011/jan11/01-05SOCsupport.mspx|archive-date=April 7, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Matt|last=Rosoff|url=https://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/01/05/businessinsider-microsoft-spills-beans-on--at-ces-2011-1.DTL|title=OK, So Windows Is Coming To ARM Tablets...Someday (MSFT)|work=[[San Francisco Chronicle]]|agency=Business Insider|publisher=Hearst Communications|date=January 5, 2011|access-date=January 5, 2011|archive-date=June 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629064811/http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=%2Fg%2Fa%2F2011%2F01%2F05%2Fbusinessinsider-microsoft-spills-beans-on--at-ces-2011-1.DTL|url-status=dead}}</ref> Details also began to surface about a new application framework for Windows 8 codenamed "Jupiter", which would be used to make "immersive" applications using [[XAML]] (similarly to [[Windows Phone]] and [[Silverlight]]) that could be distributed via a new packaging system and a rumored [[application store]].<ref name=zdn-jupiter>{{cite web|title=More on Microsoft 'Jupiter' and what it means for Windows 8|url=https://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/more-on-microsoft-jupiter-and-what-it-means-for-windows-8/8373|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=March 30, 2013}}</ref>

The earliest available build of Windows 8 is build 7700, compiled in January 2010.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Windows 7 post RTM build 7700 spotted|url=https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-7-post-rtm-build-7700-leaks/|access-date=March 11, 2021|website=Neowin|language=en}}</ref> The build was identical to [[Windows 7]] except for the wallpaper being different – the same one from the Beta and Release Candidate. In addition, there were a few references to Windows 8 in this build.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

In late 2010, an optional 3D desktop user interface for high-end systems named "Wind" was rumored.<ref>{{cite web|title="Wind": Windows 8 mit neuer 3D-Oberfläche?|url=https://winfuture.de/news,60086.html|website=winfuture.de|access-date=September 27, 2021|language=de|date=December 9, 2010}}</ref>

Two [[Pre-alpha|milestone releases]] of Windows 8 and one of [[Windows Server 2012]] [[Internet leak|leaked]] to the general public. Milestone 1, Build 7850, was leaked on April 12, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-build-7850-has-leaked|title=Windows 8 Build 7850 has leaked|date=April 12, 2012|access-date=December 28, 2012|first=Brad|last=Sams|work=[[Neowin]]}}</ref> It was the first build where the title of a window was written centered instead of aligned to the left. It was also probably the first appearance of the Metro-style font, and its wallpaper had the text ''shhh. let's not leak our hard work''. However, its detailed build number reveals that the build was created on September 22, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.redmondpie.com/windows-8-build-7850-m1-leaked-download/|title=Windows 8 Build 7850 M1 Has Been Leaked|date=April 12, 2011|access-date=December 28, 2012|work=Redmond Pie|first=Taimur|last=Asad}}</ref> The leaked copy was Enterprise edition, with other editions leaking later. In 2020, it was discovered that Metro existed in this build, after disabling the ''Redpill'' feature lockout. The start screen was very primitive, being a screen with a white background and gray tiles. The charms bar was also included, but was unusable. The OS still reads as "Windows 7". Milestone 2, Build 7955, was leaked on April 25, 2011. The traditional [[Blue Screen of Death]] (BSoD) was replaced by a new ''black'' screen,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/blog/hardware/windows-8-build-7955-sporting-new-black-screen-of-death/12529|title=Windows 8 build 7955 sporting new 'Black' Screen of Death|date=April 27, 2012|access-date=December 28, 2012|first=Adrian|last=Kingsley-Hughes|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]}}</ref> although it was later reverted to a different blue color. This build introduced a new [[Ribbon (computing)|ribbon]] in [[Windows Explorer]]. The "Windows 7" logo was temporarily replaced with text displaying "Microsoft Confidential". Both builds 7850 and 7955 leaked alongside Windows Server 2012 build 7959. On June 17, 2011, build 7989 64-bit edition was leaked. It introduced a new boot screen featuring the same Betta fish as the default Windows 7 Beta wallpaper, which was later replaced, and the circling dots as featured in the final build (although the final version comes with smaller circling dots throbber). It also had the text ''Welcome'' below them, although this was scrapped.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.winrumors.com/windows-8-milestone-3-build-7989-leaks/|title=Windows 8 Milestone 3 build 7989 leaks|date=April 27, 2012|access-date=December 28, 2012|first=Tom|last=Warren|work=Winrumors|archive-date=November 1, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101133257/http://www.winrumors.com/windows-8-milestone-3-build-7989-leaks/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The boot screen was not new to this build though – it came from build 7973, a slightly earlier build. Most of these leaks "hid" the main Metro UI features that were to come in the aforementioned Redpill feature lockout in order to prevent relevant leaks. An unlocker tool named ''Redlock'' was necessary to reveal the new Metro UI as well as the redesigned Start Screen, Lock Screen and apps.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Redlock |url=https://betawiki.net/wiki/Redlock |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=BetaWiki |language=en}}</ref> Although several other unlocker tools have tried to replicate this patch as closely as possible before Redlock, it is the most accurate, supporting the enabling of builds' Metro UI from 7814-8056. It also worked on the Developer Preview.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

This build also leaked in the x86 architecture as a debug build, with the setup having a slight change – the theme was now Windows Basic in setup, rather than Classic.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

Build 8008 was the first build to remove the User Tile. A new wallpaper was introduced and Metro was updated to be more like the final version of Windows 8.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Windows 8 build 8008 |url=https://betawiki.net/wiki/Windows_8_build_8008 |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=BetaWiki |language=en}}</ref>

On June 1, 2011, Microsoft unveiled Windows 8's new user interface, as well as additional features at both [[Computex Taipei]] and the [[All Things Digital|D9: All Things Digital]] conference in California.<ref>{{cite web|title=Live from Microsoft's Windows 8 preview event at Computex 2011.|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/live-from-microsofts-windows-8-preview-event-at-computex-2011/|work=Engadget|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=June 1, 2011|access-date=February 28, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|title=Previewing 'Windows 8'|url=https://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2011/jun11/06-01corporatenews.aspx|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=June 1, 2011|access-date=February 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307150940/https://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2011/jun11/06-01corporatenews.aspx|archive-date=March 7, 2012}}</ref>

The "Building Windows 8" blog launched on August 15, 2011, featuring details surrounding Windows 8's features and its development process.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/15/welcome-to-building-windows-8.aspx|title=Welcome to Building Windows 8 Blogs|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=August 15, 2011|access-date=September 8, 2011}}</ref>

===Previews===
[[File:Windows8102MultiMonitorAndApp.png|thumb|A screenshot of Windows Developer Preview running on a multi-monitor system, showcasing some features]]

Microsoft would unveil more Windows 8 features and improvements on the first day of the first [[Build (developer conference)|Build conference]] on September 13, 2011.<ref name="W8PreviewGuide">{{cite web|url=https://download.microsoft.com/download/1/E/4/1E455D53-C382-4A39-BA73-55413F183333/Windows_Developer_Preview-Windows8_guide.pdf|title=Windows 8 Developer Preview Guide|access-date=September 16, 2011|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007012704/https://download.microsoft.com/download/1/E/4/1E455D53-C382-4A39-BA73-55413F183333/Windows_Developer_Preview-Windows8_guide.pdf|archive-date=October 7, 2011}}</ref> The first public beta build of Windows 8 – Windows Developer Preview (build 8102) – was released at the event. A [[Samsung Electronics|Samsung]] tablet running the build was also distributed to conference attendees.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

The build was released for download later that day in 32-bit and 64-bit variants, and a special 64-bit variant which included SDKs and developer tools ([[Visual Studio Express]] and [[Expression Blend]]) for developing Metro-style apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.buildwindows.com/|title=Home—BUILD|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=February 29, 2012}}</ref> The Windows Store was also announced during the presentation, but was not available in this build.<ref name=pcw-wdptonight>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 Developer Preview Available Tonight|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2392860,00.asp|work=[[PC Magazine]]|first=Chloe|last=Albanesius|publisher=[[Ziff Davis, LLC]]|date=September 13, 2011|access-date=May 29, 2013}}</ref><ref name=timn-8dprelease>{{cite web|title=Microsoft releases Windows 8 Developer Preview, announces Windows Store (update: it's out early!)|url=https://www.theverge.com/2011/09/13/microsoft-releases-windows-8-developers-preview-announces-windows-store/|work=[[The Verge]]|date=September 13, 2011|access-date=May 29, 2013}}</ref> According to Microsoft, there were about 535,000 downloads of the developer preview within the first 12 hours of its release.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/steve-ballmer-touts-500-000-windows-8-downloads-in-less-than-12/|title=Steve Ballmer touts 500,000 Windows 8 downloads in less than 12 hours|first=Donald|last=Melanson|date=September 14, 2011|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=AOL|access-date=September 16, 2011}}</ref> Originally set to expire on March 11, 2012, in February 2012 the Developer Preview's expiry date was changed to January 15, 2013.<ref name=expirepostponed>{{cite web|url=https://support.microsoft.com/kb/2671501|title=An update that postpones the expiration date of Windows 8 Developer Preview and Windows 8 Server Developer Preview is available|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=February 16, 2012|access-date=May 5, 2012|archive-date=20 April 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420105854/https://support.microsoft.com/kb/2671501|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On February 17, 2012, Microsoft unveiled a new logo for Windows 8. Designed by [[Pentagram (design firm)|Pentagram]] partner [[Paula Scher]], the Windows logo was changed to resemble a set of four window panes. Additionally, the entire logo is now rendered in a single solid color.<ref>{{cite web|date=February 17, 2012|title=Redesigning the Windows Logo|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2012/02/17/redesigning-the-windows-logo/|access-date=February 18, 2012}}</ref>

On February 29, 2012, Microsoft released Windows 8 Consumer Preview, the beta version of Windows 8, build 8250. Alongside other changes, the build brought over the big change from build 8195: removing the [[Start button]] from the taskbar for the first time in a public build since its debut on [[Windows 95]]; according to Windows manager Chaitanya Sareen, the Start button was removed to reflect their view that on Windows 8, the desktop was an app itself, and not the primary interface of the operating system.<ref name="cnet-warmblanket">{{cite web|title=Microsoft's Chaitanya Sareen gets candid on the evolution of Windows 8|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/chaitanya-sareen-microsofts-principal-program-manager-lead-on-windows-gets-candid-on-windows-8/|work=CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=April 5, 2014}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated3">{{Cite web|title=Windows 8: Microsoft unveils consumer preview|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-17205753|publisher=BBC|date=February 29, 2012|access-date=March 1, 2012}}</ref> Windows president Steven Sinofsky said more than 100,000 changes had been made since the developer version went public.<ref name="autogenerated3"/> The day after its release, Windows 8 Consumer Preview had been downloaded over one million times.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/windows-8-consumer-preview-hits-one-million-downloads-in-a-day/|title=Windows 8 Consumer Preview hits one million downloads in a day|work=Engadget|publisher=AOL|date=March 1, 2012|first=Brian|last=Heater|access-date=March 4, 2012}}</ref> Like the Developer Preview, the Consumer Preview expired on January 15, 2013.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

Many other builds may exist or were released until Japan's Developers Day conference when Sinofsky announced that Windows 8 Release Preview (build 8400) would be released during the first week of June.<ref>{{cite web|last=Musil|first=Steven|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57419612-75/windows-8-release-preview-due-in-early-june/|title=Windows 8 'release preview' due in early June|work=[[CNET]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=April 23, 2012|access-date=June 11, 2012}}</ref> On May 28, 2012, Windows 8 Release Preview (Standard Simplified Chinese x64 edition, not China-specific variant, build 8400) was leaked online on various Chinese and [[BitTorrent]] websites.<ref>{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/5/29/3050546/windows-8-release-preview-leak-chinese-edition|title=Windows 8 Release Preview leaks out ahead of official debut|work=[[The Verge]]|date=May 29, 2012|access-date=June 11, 2012}}</ref> On May 31, 2012, Windows 8 Release Preview was released to the public by Microsoft.<ref>{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 Release Preview now available to download|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/5/31/3054939/windows-8-release-preview-download-link-now-live|work=The Verge|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|date=May 31, 2012|access-date=October 27, 2012}}</ref> Major items in the Release Preview included the addition of Sports, Travel, and News apps, along with an integrated variant of [[Adobe Flash Player]] in [[Internet Explorer]].<ref>{{cite web|title=The Windows 8 Release Preview & Windows Upgrade Offer|url=https://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2012/05/31/the-windows-8-release-preview-amp-windows-upgrade-offer-windows8.aspx|work=Windows Experience Blog|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|last=LeBlanc|first=Brandon|date=May 31, 2012|access-date=March 26, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011050701/http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2012/05/31/the-windows-8-release-preview-amp-windows-upgrade-offer-windows8.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Like the Developer Preview and the Consumer Preview, the release preview expired on January 15, 2013.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

===Release===
[[File:Windows 8 launch event at Pier 57 in New York City 20121025.jpg|thumb|right|Windows 8 launch event at [[Pier 57]] in New York City]]

On August 1, 2012, Windows 8 (build 9200<ref>{{Cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Microsoft completes Windows 8 development, announces release to manufacturing|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/1/3188541/windows-8-rtm-development-complete|access-date=August 5, 2012|newspaper=[[The Verge]]|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|date=August 1, 2012}}</ref>) was [[released to manufacturing]] with the build number 6.2.9200.16384,<ref name="rtmdate">{{cite web|date=August 1, 2012|title=Windows 8 has reached the RTM milestone|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2012/08/01/windows-8-has-reached-the-rtm-milestone|access-date=August 1, 2012|publisher=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> and Microsoft planned to hold a launch event on October 25, 2012<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57514205-75/microsoft-come-celebrate-windows-8-on-oct-25/|title=Microsoft: Come 'celebrate' Windows 8 on Oct. 25|work=[[CNET]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=September 17, 2012|last=Reisinger|first=Don}}</ref> before releasing Windows 8 for [[general availability]] on the next day.<ref name="availabilitydate">{{cite web|date=July 18, 2012|title=Windows 8 will be available on…|url=https://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/07/18/windows-8-will-be-available-on.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919111046/https://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/07/18/windows-8-will-be-available-on.aspx|archive-date=September 19, 2012|access-date=July 18, 2012|publisher=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> However, only a day after its release to manufacturing, a copy of the final version of Windows 8 Enterprise N (a variant for European markets which lacks bundled media players to comply with an [[European Union Microsoft competition case|antitrust ruling]]) was leaked online, followed by leaks of the final versions of Windows 8 Pro and Enterprise a few days later.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Keizer|first=Gregg|title=Windows 8 Leaked in Final Form|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/260305/windows_8_leaked_in_final_form.html|access-date=August 9, 2012|work=[[Computerworld]]|publisher=[[IDG]]|date=August 3, 2012|archive-date=August 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805232513/http://www.pcworld.com/article/260305/windows_8_leaked_in_final_form.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Crothers|first=Brooke|title=Windows 8 final version allegedly leaks out already|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57485894-75/windows-8-final-version-allegedly-leaks-out-already/|access-date=August 9, 2012|newspaper=CNET|date=August 2, 2012}}</ref> On August 15, 2012, Windows 8 was made available to download for [[MSDN]] and [[Microsoft TechNet|TechNet]] subscribers.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 now available to download for MSDN and TechNet subscribers|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/15/3243935/windows-8-download-msdn-technet-subscribers|access-date=August 16, 2012|newspaper=[[The Verge]]|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|date=August 15, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 was made available to Software Assurance customers on August 16, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2012/08/16/windows-8-is-ready-for-your-enterprise.aspx|title=Windows 8 Is Ready For Your Enterprise|work=Springboard Series Blog|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=August 16, 2012|access-date=August 16, 2012|last=Rose|first=Stephen|archive-date=August 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120818224724/http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2012/08/16/windows-8-is-ready-for-your-enterprise.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Windows 8 was made available for students with a [[DreamSpark Premium]] subscription on August 22, 2012, earlier than advertised.<ref name="Dreamspark">{{cite web|first=Lee|last=Stott|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/uk_faculty_connection/archive/2012/08/18/visual-studio-2012-and-windows-on-dreamspark.aspx|title=Visual Studio 2012 and Windows on DreamSpark|work=Microsoft UK Faculty Connection|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=August 18, 2012|access-date=August 24, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 became generally available for download to all [[MSDN]] and [[Microsoft TechNet|TechNet]] customers on August 15 and for retail purchase on October 26, 2012.{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

Relatively few changes were made from the Release Preview to the final version. These included updated versions of its pre-loaded apps, the renaming of Windows Explorer to File Explorer, the replacement of the Aero Glass theme from Windows Vista and 7 with a new flat and solid-color theme as seen in build 8432, and the addition of new background options for the Start screen, lock screen, and desktop.<ref>{{cite web|last=Bott|first=Ed|title=Surprise! What you can expect from Windows 8 RTM|url=https://www.zdnet.com/surprise-what-you-can-expect-from-windows-8-rtm-7000002679/|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=August 27, 2012|date=August 15, 2012}}</ref> Prior to its general availability on October 26, 2012, updates were released for some of Windows 8's bundled apps, and a "General Availability Cumulative Update" (which included fixes to improve performance, compatibility, and battery life) was [[Patch Tuesday|released on Tuesday]], October 9, 2012. Microsoft indicated that due to improvements to its testing infrastructure, general improvements of this nature are to be released more frequently through Windows Update instead of being relegated to [[OEM]]s and [[service pack]]s only.<ref name="ars-rtmpatch">{{cite web|last=Cunningham|first=Andrew|title=Post-RTM fixes improve Windows 8's performance and battery life|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/post-rtm-fixes-improve-windows-8s-performance-and-battery-life/|work=[[Ars Technica]]|date=October 9, 2012|publisher=[[Condé Nast Publications|Condé Nast Digital]]|access-date=October 21, 2012}}</ref><ref name="ssforwin-updates">{{cite web|title=Windows 8 App Update: Mail, Calendar, People And Messaging|url=https://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-app-update-mail-calendar-people-messaging-144471|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|access-date=October 21, 2012|date=October 10, 2012|first=Paul|last=Thurrott|archive-date=October 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012233600/http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-app-update-mail-calendar-people-messaging-144471|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Microsoft began an advertising campaign centered around Windows 8 and its [[Microsoft Surface RT|Surface]] tablet in October 2012, starting with its first television advertisement premiering on October 14, 2012.<ref name=asd-win8ad>{{cite web|title=Windows Reimagined|url=https://allthingsd.com/20121014/microsoft-starts-tv-advertising-countdown-to-windows-8-launch/?refcat=news|work=All Things Digital|publisher=Dow Jones & Company|access-date=October 21, 2012}}</ref> The advertising budget of US$1.5–1.8&nbsp;billion was significantly larger than the US$200 million campaign used to promote [[Windows 95]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/netapp/2012/10/11/windows-8-release-date-tablet-microsoft-cloud/|title=Microsoft Betting BIG on Cloud with Windows 8 and Tablets|last=Einstein|first=Dave|date=October 11, 2012|work=Forbes|access-date=October 27, 2012}}</ref> As part of its campaign, Microsoft set up 34 [[pop-up store]]s inside malls to showcase the Surface product line, provided training for retail employees in partnership with [[Intel]], and collaborated with the electronics store chain [[Best Buy]] to design expanded spaces to showcase devices. In an effort to make retail displays of Windows 8 devices a bit more "personal", Microsoft also developed a character known in English-speaking markets as "Allison Brown", whose fictional profile (including personal photos, contacts, and emails) is also featured on demonstration units of Windows 8 devices.<ref name=wsj-retailwin8>{{cite news|title=Microsoft Dives into the Retail Scene|url=https://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203400604578070662270723422.html|work=[[Wall Street Journal]]|date=October 22, 2012|publisher=[[Dow Jones & Company]]|access-date=August 22, 2013}}</ref> All Windows 7 PCs plan to offer a new Windows 8 upgrade on December 31, 2012, and Microsoft upgraded it as a product of currently supported [[Windows 7]] PCs in January 2013 via [[Windows Update]].{{Cn|date=April 2023}}

[[File:Windows 8 Pro DVD.jpg|thumb|Windows 8 Pro DVD case, containing a 32-bit and a 64-bit installation disc]]

In May 2013, Microsoft launched a new television campaign for Windows 8 illustrating the capabilities and pricing of Windows 8 tablets in comparison to the [[iPad]], which featured the voice of [[Siri]] remarking on the iPad's limitations in a parody of Apple's "[[Get a Mac]]" advertisements.<ref name=verge-msipadad>{{cite web|title=Microsoft recruits Siri to bad-mouth the iPad in new Windows 8 tablet ad|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/5/22/4357288/windows-8-ad-attacks-apple-ipad-with-siri|work=The Verge|date=May 22, 2013|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 26, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pcw-siriad>{{cite web|title=Microsoft turns Siri against Apple in hilarious new Windows 8 ad|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2039629/microsoft-turns-siri-against-apple-in-hilarious-new-windows-8-ad.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|access-date=October 26, 2013}}</ref> On June 12, 2013, during game 1 of the [[2013 Stanley Cup Finals]], Microsoft premiered the first ad in its "Windows Everywhere" campaign, which promoted Windows 8, [[Windows Phone 8]], and the company's suite of online services as an interconnected platform.<ref name=verge-81ad>{{cite web|title=First Windows 8.1 ad features the return of the Start button|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/9/29/4782384/first-windows-8-1-ad-start-button|work=[[The Verge]]|date=September 29, 2013|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=November 3, 2013}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-windowseverywhere>{{cite web|title=New Microsoft 'Windows Everywhere' ad crosses product boundaries|url=https://www.zdnet.com/new-microsoft-windows-everywhere-ad-crosses-product-boundaries-7000016764/|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=November 3, 2013}}</ref>

==New and updated features==
{{Main|Features new to Windows 8}}

New features and functionality in Windows 8 include a faster startup through [[UEFI]] integration and the new "Hybrid Boot" mode (which [[Hibernation (computing)|hibernates]] the Windows [[kernel (operating system)|kernel]] on shutdown to speed up the subsequent boot),<ref>{{cite web|last=Woods|first=Ben|url=https://www.zdnet.co.uk/news/desktop-os/2011/09/09/windows-8-hybrid-mode-brings-faster-boot-40093896/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111017125045/https://www.zdnet.co.uk/news/desktop-os/2011/09/09/windows-8-hybrid-mode-brings-faster-boot-40093896|archive-date=October 17, 2011|title=Windows 8 'hybrid' mode brings faster boot|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=September 9, 2011|access-date=January 27, 2012}}</ref> a new lock screen with a clock and notifications,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-welcome-screen-130065|title=Windows 8 Secrets: Welcome Screen|publisher=SuperSite for Windows|first=Paul|last=Thurrott|access-date=April 10, 2011|archive-date=April 10, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110410072207/http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-welcome-screen-130065|url-status=dead}}</ref> and the ability for enterprise users to create [[live USB]] variants of Windows (also known as [[Windows To Go]]).<ref>{{cite web|last=Mackie|first=Kurt|url=https://mcpmag.com/articles/2011/09/16/microsoft-unveils-windows-to-go-for-the-enterprise.aspx|title=Windows 8 Will Run on Thumb Drive|work=Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine|publisher=1105 Media|date=September 16, 2011|access-date=January 27, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Take|first=First|url=https://www.zdnet.co.uk/blogs/zdnet-uk-first-take-10013312/windows-8-windows-to-go-10024384/|title=Windows 8: Windows To Go|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=September 20, 2011|access-date=January 27, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006125333/https://www.zdnet.co.uk/blogs/zdnet-uk-first-take-10013312/windows-8-windows-to-go-10024384/|archive-date=October 6, 2011}}</ref> It also includes native support for [[USB 3.0|USB 3]] devices, which allow for faster data transfers and improved power management with compatible devices,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx|title=Building robust USB 3.0 support|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=August 22, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396|title=Microsoft to provide USB 3.0 support for better battery life in Windows 8|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=August 2011|access-date=October 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926134525/https://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396|archive-date=September 26, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> and [[hard disk]] 4KB [[Advanced Format]] support,<ref>{{cite web|title=Advanced format (4K) disk compatibility update (Windows)|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx|date=November 28, 2012|access-date=January 3, 2013|publisher=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> as well as support for [[near field communication]] to facilitate sharing and communication between devices.<ref name=bbc-w8designs>{{cite news|title=Windows 8 spurs new touchscreen hybrid PC designs|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19421341|work=[[BBC News Online]]|date=August 30, 2012|publisher=[[BBC]]|access-date=October 21, 2012}}</ref>

[[Windows Explorer]], which has been renamed to File Explorer, now includes a [[Ribbon (computing)|ribbon]] in place of the command bar. File operation dialog boxes have been updated to provide more detailed statistics, the ability to pause file transfers, and improvements in the ability to manage conflicts when copying files.<ref>{{cite web|last=Paul|first=Iam|title=Microsoft Overhauls Windows Explorer in Windows 8|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/238699/microsoft_overhauls_windows_explorer_in_windows_8.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> A new "File History" function allows incremental revisions of files to be backed up to and restored from a secondary storage device,<ref name=filehistory>{{cite news|title=Using File History, Windows 8's built-in backup tool|url=https://www.extremetech.com/computing/132628-using-file-history-windows-8s-built-in-backup-tool|work=ExtremeTech|date=July 11, 2012 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media|access-date=September 4, 2012|last1=Anthony |first1=Sebastian }}</ref> while [[Storage Spaces]] allows users to combine different sized hard disks into virtual drives and specify mirroring, parity, or no redundancy on a folder-by-folder basis.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven|title=Virtualizing storage for scale, resiliency, and efficiency|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx|publisher=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> For easier management of files and folders, Windows 8 introduces the ability to move selected files or folders via [[drag and drop]] from a parent folder into a subfolder listed within the [[Breadcrumb (navigation)|breadcrumb]] hierarchy of the [[address bar]] in File Explorer.<ref name="DragandDrop">{{cite web|url=https://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/|title=Windows 8 drag and drop icons into breadcrumb links|last=Amobi|first=Onuora|publisher=Nnigma Inc.|work=Eye on Windows|date=April 28, 2011|access-date=December 27, 2016|archive-date=December 27, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161227130241/http://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[Task Manager (Windows)|Task Manager]] has been redesigned, including a new processes tab with the option to display fewer or more details of running applications and background processes, a heat map using different colors indicating the level of resource usage, network and disk counters, grouping by process type (e.g. applications, background processes and Windows processes), friendly names for processes and a new option which allows users to search the web to find information about obscure processes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx|title=The Windows 8 Task Manager|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=October 13, 2011}}</ref> Additionally, the [[Blue Screen of Death]] has been updated with a simpler and modern design with less technical information displayed.<ref name=cnet-newbsod>{{cite web|last=Kooser|first=Amanda|title=Windows 8 Blue Screen of Death gets sad face :(|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20107347-1/windows-8-blue-screen-of-death-gets-sad-face/|work=CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|date=September 16, 2011|access-date=May 15, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/windows-8-bsod-ditches-confusing-error-codes-for-uninformative-f/|title=Windows 8 BSoD ditches confusing error codes for uninformative frowny face|first=Terrence|last=O'Brien|work=Engadget|publisher=AOL|date=September 14, 2011|access-date=May 20, 2012}}</ref>

===Safety and security===
New security features in Windows 8 include two new authentication methods tailored towards touchscreens ([[Personal identification number|PINs]] and picture passwords),<ref name=ars-w8-pictureunsecure>{{cite web|last=Goodin|first=Dan|title=Experts: Windows 8 features make account passwords easier to steal|url=https://arstechnica.com/security/2012/10/experts-windows-8-features-make-account-passwords-easier-to-steal/|work=[[Ars Technica]]|date=October 18, 2012|publisher=[[Condé Nast]]|access-date=October 20, 2012}}</ref> the addition of [[Antivirus software|antivirus]] capabilities to [[Windows Defender]] (bringing it in parity with [[Microsoft Security Essentials]]).<ref name=cw-wdantivirus>{{cite web|title=Windows 8's built-in AV to be security of last resort|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227707/Windows_8_s_built_in_AV_to_be_security_of_last_resort|work=[[Computerworld]]|date=June 4, 2012|publisher=[[IDG]]|access-date=October 20, 2012}}</ref> [[SmartScreen]] filtering integrated into Windows,<ref>{{cite web|last=Tung|first=Liam|title=Win8 SmartScreen nudges software sellers to buy code signing certs|url=https://www.cso.com.au/article/433760/win8_smartscreen_nudges_software_sellers_buy_code_signing_certs/#closeme|work=CSO|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=November 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102104414/https://www.cso.com.au/article/433760/win8_smartscreen_nudges_software_sellers_buy_code_signing_certs/#closeme|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Microsoft Family Safety|Family Safety]] offers [[parental controls]], which allows parents to monitor and manage their children's activities on a device with activity reports and safety controls.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/14/keeping-your-family-safer-with-windows-8.aspx|title=Keeping your family safer with Windows 8|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=May 14, 2012|access-date=June 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/windows-8-family-safety-feature-chaperones-underage-users-thro|title=Windows 8 'Family Safety' feature chaperones underage users through the World Wild Web|publisher=AOL|work=Engadget|date=May 14, 2012|access-date=June 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/255582/microsoft_win8_simplifies_improves_parental_monitoring_of_kids_computer_activities.html|title=Microsoft: Win8 Simplifies, Improves Parental Monitoring of Kids Computer Activities|work=PC World|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|access-date=June 11, 2012}}</ref> Windows 8 also provides integrated [[Recovery partition|system recovery]] through the new "Refresh" and "Reset" functions,<ref name=ars-refreshreset>{{cite web|title=Making the lives of IT easier: Windows 8 Refresh, Reset, and Windows To Go|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/making-the-lives-of-it-easier-windows-8-refresh-reset-and-windows-to-go/|work=[[Ars Technica]]|date=September 18, 2011|publisher=[[Conde Nast]]|access-date=October 20, 2012}}</ref> including system recovery from USB drive.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shultz|first=Greg|title=Create a Recovery Drive in Windows 8|url=https://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/create-a-recovery-drive-in-windows-8/7261|work=[[TechRepublic]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=April 12, 2013|date=February 13, 2013}}</ref> Windows 8's first security patches would be released on November 13, 2012; it would contain three fixes deemed "critical" by the company.<ref>{{cite web|first1=John P.|last1=Mello|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2013770/windows-8-security-patches-to-be-released.html|title=Windows 8 security patches to be released|work=[[PC World]]|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=November 10, 2012|access-date=November 19, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 supports a feature of the [[Unified Extensible Firmware Interface|UEFI]] specification known as "Secure boot", which uses a [[public-key infrastructure]] to verify the integrity of the operating system and prevent unauthorized programs such as [[bootkit]]s from infecting the device's boot process.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/br259114.aspx|title=Hardware Design and Development for Windows 8|work=[[MSDN]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=December 21, 2011|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref> Some pre-built devices may be described as "certified" by Microsoft; these must have secure boot enabled by default, and provide ways for users to disable or re-configure the feature. [[ARM architecture|ARM]]-based [[Windows RT]] devices must have secure boot permanently enabled.<ref name="building-secureboot"/><ref name=warren/><ref name="wired-sb"/>

===Online services and functionality===
Windows 8 provides tighter integration with online services from Microsoft and others. A user can now log into Windows with a [[Microsoft account]], which can be used to access services and [[Synchronization|synchronize]] applications and settings between multiple devices. A client app for Microsoft's SkyDrive [[cloud storage]] service allows apps to save files directly to SkyDrive. However, a SkyDrive client for the desktop and [[File Explorer]] is not included in Windows 8, and must be downloaded separately.<ref name=pcmag-win8skydrive>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 and the Cloud: SkyDrive|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2409155,00.asp|work=PC Magazine|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|access-date=September 9, 2012}}</ref> Bundled multimedia apps are provided under the Xbox brand, including [[Xbox Music]], [[Xbox Video]], and the [[Xbox SmartGlass]] companion for use with an [[Xbox 360]] console. Games can integrate into an [[Xbox Live]] hub app, which also allows users to view their profile and [[Gamerscore]].<ref name=pcw-testdrivertm>{{cite web|last=Case|first=Loyd|title=Test Driving Windows 8 RTM|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/260884/test_driving_windows_8_rtm.html|work=PC World|date=August 15, 2012|publisher=IDG|access-date=September 9, 2012|archive-date=September 15, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120915061720/http://www.pcworld.com/article/260884/test_driving_windows_8_rtm.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Other bundled apps provide the ability to link [[Flickr]] and [[Facebook]].<ref name=pl-windows8/> Due to [[Facebook Connect]] service changes, Facebook support is disabled in all bundled apps effective June 8, 2015.<ref name=ms-facebookremoved>{{cite web|title=Facebook Connect is no longer available|url=https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Facebook-Connect-is-no-longer-available-f31c8107-7b5a-4e3d-8a22-e506dacb6db6?ui=en-US&rs=en-US&ad=US|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=June 8, 2015}}</ref>

[[Internet Explorer 10]] is included as two variants – a desktop program and a touch-optimized app. It also includes increased support for [[HTML5]], [[CSS3]], and [[hardware acceleration]]. The app does not support plugins or [[ActiveX]] components, but includes a variant of [[Adobe Flash Player]] that is optimized for touch and low-power usage. Initially, Adobe Flash would only work on sites included on a "Compatibility View" [[whitelist]]; however, after feedback from users and additional compatibility tests, an update in March 2013 changed this behavior to use a smaller [[blacklist]] of sites with known compatibility issues instead, allowing Flash to be used with most sites by default.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2013/03/11/flash-in-windows-8.aspx|first=Rob|last=Mauceri|title=Flash in Windows 8|work=IEBlog|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=March 11, 2013|access-date=March 24, 2013}}</ref> The desktop variant does not contain these limitations.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2012/05/31/windows-release-preview-the-sixth-ie10-platform-preview.aspx|first=Dean|last=Hachamovitch|title=Windows Release Preview: The Sixth IE10 Platform Preview|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=May 31, 2012|access-date=June 7, 2012}}</ref>

Windows 8 also incorporates improved support for [[mobile broadband]]; the operating system can now detect the insertion of a [[SIM card]] and automatically configure connection settings (including [[Access Point Name|APNs]] and carrier branding), and reduce its Internet usage to conserve bandwidth on [[Bandwidth cap|metered networks]]. An integrated [[airplane mode]] setting enables users to globally disable all wireless connectivity. Carriers can also offer account management systems through Windows Store apps, which can be automatically installed as a part of the connection process and offer usage statistics on their respective tile.<ref name=bw8-broadband>{{cite web|title=Engineering Windows 8 for mobile networks|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/20/engineering-windows-8-for-mobility.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=October 21, 2012}}</ref>

===Windows Store apps===
[[File:Windows 8 - Xbox Music and Photos together.png|thumb|250px|Snap feature: Xbox Music, alongside Photos snapped into a [[sidebar (computing)|sidebar]] to the right side of the screen]]
[[File:Wikipedia App snapped to Windows 8 desktop.png|thumb|250px|Snap feature: [[Windows shell#Desktop|Desktop]], along [[Wikipedia App]] snapped into a sidebar to the right side of the screen. In Windows 8, desktop and everything on it is treated as one Metro-style app.]]

Windows 8 introduces a new style of application, ''[[Microsoft Store|Windows Store]] apps''. According to Microsoft developer Jensen Harris, these apps are optimized for [[touchscreen]] environments and are more specialized than current [[desktop application]]s. Apps can run either in a full-screen mode or be snapped to the side of a screen.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Apps can provide [[Toast (computing)|toast notifications]] on screen or animate their tiles on the Start screen with dynamic content. Apps can use "contracts"; a collection of [[Hooking|hooks]] to provide common functionality that can integrate with other apps, including search and sharing.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Apps can also provide integration with other services; for example, the People app can connect to a variety of different social networks and services (such as Facebook, [[Skype]], and [[People (Microsoft service)|People service]]), while the Photos app can aggregate photos from services such as Facebook and Flickr.<ref name=pl-windows8>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 review|date=August 29, 2012|url=https://www.pocket-lint.com/review/5972/microsoft-windows-8-pro-desktop-tablet-os-review|publisher=Pocket Lint|access-date=September 9, 2012}}</ref>

Windows Store apps run within a new set of [[Application programming interface|APIs]] known as [[Windows Runtime]], which supports [[programming language]]s such as [[C (programming language)|C]], [[C++]], [[Visual Basic .NET]], [[C Sharp (programming language)|C#]], along with [[HTML5]] and [[JavaScript]].<ref name="pcw-building"/> If written in some "high-level" languages, apps written for Windows Runtime can be compatible with both Intel and [[ARM architecture|ARM]] variants of Windows,<ref name="bi-windows8"/> otherwise they are not [[Binary code compatibility|binary code compatible]]. Components may be compiled as Windows Runtime Components, permitting their use by all compatible languages.<ref name=msdn-winrt-javascript>{{cite web |title=Using the Windows Runtime in JavaScript |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh710230(v=vs.94).aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605185039/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh710230(v=vs.94).aspx |archive-date=June 5, 2013 |work=[[Microsoft Developer Network]] |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |access-date=August 30, 2023}}</ref> To ensure stability and security, apps run within a [[Sandbox (computer security)|sandboxed environment]], and require permissions to use certain other functionalities, such as accessing the Internet or a camera.<ref name=verge-talkswin8>{{cite web|title=Microsoft talks Windows Store features, Metro app sandboxing for Windows 8 developers|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/5/17/3026590/microsoft-windows-8-developers-windows-store-sandboxing|work=[[The Verge]]|date=May 17, 2012|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=September 8, 2012}}</ref>

Retail variants of Windows 8 are only able to install these apps through [[Windows Store]] – a namesake distribution platform that offers both apps, and listings for desktop programs certified for comparability with Windows 8.<ref name=bi-windows8>{{cite web|last=Rosoff|first=Matt|title=Here's Everything You Wanted To Know About Microsoft's Upcoming iPad Killers|url=https://articles.businessinsider.com/2012-02-09/tech/31040510_1_steven-sinofsky-pcs-microsoft-first|publisher=[[Business Insider]]|access-date=February 10, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122030754/https://articles.businessinsider.com/2012-02-09/tech/31040510_1_steven-sinofsky-pcs-microsoft-first|archive-date=January 22, 2013}}</ref><ref name=verge-talkswin8/> A method to [[Sideloading|sideload]] apps from outside Windows Store is available to devices running Windows 8 Enterprise and joined to a [[Windows domain|domain]]; Windows 8 Pro and [[Windows RT]] devices that are not part of a domain can also sideload apps, but only after special product keys are obtained through volume licensing.<ref name=installapps>{{cite web|title=How to Add and Remove Apps|url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh852635.aspx|work=[[Microsoft TechNet|TechNet]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=May 31, 2012|access-date=October 4, 2012|quote=To enable sideloading on a Windows 8 Enterprise computer that is not domain-joined or on any Windows® 8 Pro computer, you must use a sideloading product activation key. To enable sideloading on a Windows® RT device, you must use a sideloading product activation key. For more information about sideloading product activation keys, see Microsoft Volume Licensing.}}</ref>

The term "Immersive app" had been used internally by Microsoft developers to refer to the apps prior to the first official presentation of Windows 8, after which they were referred to as "Metro-style apps" in reference to the [[Metro (design language)|Metro design language]]. The term was phased out in August 2012; a Microsoft spokesperson denied rumors that the change was related to a potential trademark issue, and stated that "Metro" was only a codename that would be replaced prior to Windows 8's release.<ref name=zdn-jupiter/><ref name=verge-metrotm>{{cite web|title=Microsoft advises developers to stop using 'Metro' name in apps following possible trademark dispute|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/2/3215039/microsoft-metro-name-dispute-developers|work=[[The Verge]]|date=August 2, 2012|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref> Following these reports, the terms "Modern UI-style apps",<ref>{{Cite web|title=Microsoft now using 'Modern UI Style' to refer to Windows 8 'Metro Style' apps|date=August 10, 2012|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/10/3232921/microsoft-modern-ui-style-metro-style-replacement|access-date=August 10, 2012}}</ref> "Windows 8-style apps",<ref name=pcmag-metromess>{{cite web|title=Windows 8: The Metro Mess|url=https://forwardthinking.pcmag.com/none/301689-windows-8-the-metro-mess|work=PC Magazine|access-date=September 8, 2012|archive-date=September 19, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919015026/http://forwardthinking.pcmag.com/none/301689-windows-8-the-metro-mess|url-status=dead}}</ref> and "Windows Store apps" began to be used in various Microsoft documents and material to refer to the new apps. In an interview on September 12, 2012, Soma Somasegar (vice president of Microsoft's development software division) confirmed that "Windows Store apps" would be the official term for the apps.<ref name=zdnet-metroname>{{cite web|title=Microsoft finally comes clean(er) on post-Metro naming plans|url=https://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-finally-comes-cleaner-on-post-metro-naming-plans-7000004151/|work=ZDNet|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=September 13, 2012}}</ref> An MSDN page explaining the Metro design language uses the term "Modern design" to refer to the language as a whole.<ref name=msdn-moderndesign>{{cite web|title=Modern design|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/hh781237.aspx|work=MSDN|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=December 28, 2013}}</ref>

====Web browsers====
Exceptions to the restrictions faced by Windows Store apps are given to [[web browsers]]. The user's default browser can distribute a Metro-style web browser in the same package as the desktop variant, which has access to functionality unavailable to other apps, such as being able to permanently run in the background, use multiple background processes, and use [[Windows API]] code instead of WinRT (allowing for code to be re-used with the desktop variant, while still taking advantage of features available to Windows Store apps, such as charms). Microsoft advertises this exception privilege "New experience enabled" (formerly "Metro-style enabled").

The developers of both [[Google Chrome|Chrome]] and [[Firefox]] committed to developing Metro-style variants of their browsers; while Chrome's "Windows 8 mode" (discontinued on Chrome version 49) uses a full-screen version of the existing desktop interface, Firefox's variant (which was first made available on the "Aurora" release channel in September 2013) uses a touch-optimized interface inspired by the [[Firefox for mobile|Android variant of Firefox]]. In October 2013, Chrome's app was changed to mimic the desktop environment used by [[ChromeOS]].<ref name=winrt-browsers>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 browsers: the only Metro apps to get desktop power|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/windows-8-browsers-the-only-metro-apps-to-get-desktop-power-1073930|work=TechRadar|date=March 27, 2012|publisher=Future Publishing|access-date=November 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Newman|first=Jared|title=Google Chrome Gets Early Metro-Style App for Windows 8|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/257427/google_chrome_gets_early_metrostyle_app_for_windows_8.html|work=PCWorld|date=June 12, 2012|publisher=IDG|access-date=June 13, 2012|archive-date=September 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120909004200/https://www.pcworld.com/article/257427/google_chrome_gets_early_metrostyle_app_for_windows_8.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=firefox-metrow8>{{cite web|title=Mozilla previews 'Metro'-ized Firefox for Windows 8|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9232137/Mozilla_previews_Metro_ized_Firefox_for_Windows_8|work=[[Computerworld]]|date=October 8, 2012|publisher=[[IDG]]|access-date=November 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Developing a new experience enabled desktop browser|url=https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?linkid=243079|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=November 15, 2012|date=October 22, 2012}}</ref><ref name=engadget-firefoxmetro>{{cite web|title=Firefox for Windows 8 enters Aurora channel with touch and gesture support|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/09/21/firefox-for-windows-8-enters-aurora-channel/|work=Engadget|date=September 21, 2013 |access-date=September 21, 2013}}</ref><ref name=verge-metrochromeos>{{cite web|title=Google is building Chrome OS straight into Windows 8|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/10/5/4806562/google-building-chrome-os-into-windows-8|work=The Verge|date=October 5, 2013|access-date=October 5, 2013}}</ref> Development of the Firefox app for Windows 8 has since been cancelled, citing a lack of user adoption of the beta versions.<ref>{{cite web|last=Nightingale|first=Johnathan|title=Update on Metro|url=https://blog.mozilla.org/futurereleases/2014/03/14/metro/|work=Firefox Future Releases Blog|date=March 14, 2014 |access-date=March 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Interface and desktop===
Windows 8 introduces significant changes to the operating system's user interface, many of which are aimed at improving its experience on [[tablet computer]]s and other [[touchscreen]] devices. The new user interface is based on Microsoft's [[Metro (design language)|Metro design language]] and uses a [[Start menu#Third version|Start screen]] similar to that of [[Windows Phone 7]] as the primary means of launching applications. The Start screen displays a customizable array of tiles linking to various apps and desktop programs, some of which can display constantly updated information and content through "live tiles".<ref name="pcw-building">{{Cite web|title=Build: More Details On Building Windows 8 Metro Apps|url=https://forwardthinking.pcmag.com/show-reports/287736-build-more-details-on-building-windows-8-metro-apps|work=PC Magazine|access-date=February 10, 2012|first=Michael|last=Miller}}</ref> As a form of [[Computer multitasking|multi-tasking]], apps can be snapped to the side of a screen.<ref name="pcw-building"/> Alongside the traditional [[Control Panel (Windows)|Control Panel]], a new simplified and touch-optimized settings app known as "PC Settings" is used for basic configuration and user settings. It does not include many of the advanced options still accessible from the Control Panel.<ref name=verge-blueleak>{{cite web|title=Windows Blue: a video preview of what's next for Windows 8|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/3/25/4144618/windows-blue-video-preview-screenshots|work=[[The Verge]]|date=March 25, 2013|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=March 26, 2013}}</ref>

A vertical [[toolbar]] known as [[Windows shell#Charms|the charms]]<ref name="the-charms-msd"/> (accessed by swiping from the right edge of a touchscreen, swiping from the right edge of a touchpad, or pointing the cursor at [[Screen hotspot|hotspots]] in the right corners of a screen) provides access to system and app-related functions, such as search, sharing, device management, settings, and a Start button.<ref name="the-charms-msd">{{cite web|title=Charms: Search, share, start, devices, and settings|url=https://www.microsoft.com/Surface/en-US/support/getting-started/using-the-charms?lc=1033|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930201836/https://www.microsoft.com/Surface/en-US/support/getting-started/using-the-charms?lc=1033|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 30, 2013|work=Microsoft Surface documentation|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=May 21, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Otey|first=Michael|title=Top 10: Windows 8 Keyboard and Mouse Survival Guide|url=https://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/top-10-windows-8-keyboard-and-mouse-survival-guide-0|work=[[Windows IT Pro]]|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|access-date=May 21, 2013|archive-date=September 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130902120556/http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/top-10-windows-8-keyboard-and-mouse-survival-guide-0|url-status=dead}}</ref> The traditional [[desktop environment]] for running desktop applications is accessed via a tile on the Start screen. The Start button on the taskbar from previous versions of Windows has been converted into a [[Screen hotspot|hotspot]] (or "hot corner") in the lower-left corner of the screen, which displays a large [[tooltip]] displaying a thumbnail of the Start screen. Windows 8.1 added the start button back to the taskbar after many complaints, but removed the preview thumbnail.<ref name=w8-nzh-farewell>{{Cite web|title=Windows 8: Farewell Start button?|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/technology/news/article.cfm?c_id=5&objectid=10784707|access-date=February 10, 2012|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=February 10, 2012}}</ref><ref name=pcworld-metromouse/> Swiping from the left edge of a touchscreen or clicking in the top-left corner of the screen allows one to switch between apps and Desktop. Pointing the cursor at the top-left corner of the screen and moving down reveals a thumbnail list of active apps.<ref name=pcworld-metromouse>{{cite web|title=A Guide to Getting Around the Windows 8 Beta With a Mouse|date=March 2012|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/251083/a_guide_to_getting_around_the_windows_8_beta_with_a_mouse.html|publisher=PC World|access-date=September 8, 2012}}</ref> Aside from the removal of the Start button and the replacement of the [[Windows Aero#Aero Glass theme|Aero Glass]] theme with a [[flat design|flatter]] and solid-colored design, the desktop interface on Windows 8 is similar to that of [[Windows 7]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2404647,00.asp|title=RIP Aero Glass; Windows 8 Sticks a Fork in Familiar UI|date=May 19, 2012|work=PC Magazine|access-date=May 20, 2012}}</ref>

==Removed features==
{{Main|List of features removed in Windows 8}}

Several notable features were removed in Windows 8; support for playing [[DVD-Video]] was removed from [[Windows Media Player]] due to the cost of licensing the necessary decoders (especially for devices which do not include [[optical disc drive]]s at all) and the prevalence of online streaming services. For the same reasons, [[Windows Media Center]] is not included by default on Windows 8, but Windows Media Center and DVD playback support could be purchased in the "Pro Pack" (which upgrades the system to Windows 8 Pro) or the "Media Center Pack" add-on for Windows 8 Pro. As with prior versions, third-party [[DVD player]] software can still be used to enable DVD playback.<ref name=droppingDVD>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2403983,00.asp|title=Microsoft Dropping DVD Playback Support in Windows 8|first=Chloe|last=Albanesius|work=[[PC Magazine]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=May 4, 2012|access-date=May 20, 2012}}</ref>

[[Backup and Restore]], the [[backup software|backup component]] of Windows, was [[deprecated]]. It still shipped with Windows 8 and continues to work on preset schedules, but it was pushed to the background and can only be accessed through a Control Panel applet called "Windows 7 File Recovery".<ref name="cookbook"/>{{Rp|76|date=November 2012}} [[Shadow Copy]], a component of [[Windows Explorer]] that once saved previous versions of changed files, no longer protects local files and folders. It can only access previous versions of shared files stored on a [[Windows Server]] computer.<ref name="cookbook"/>{{Rp|74|date=November 2012}} The subsystem on which these components worked, however, is still available for other software to use.<ref name="cookbook">{{cite web|url=https://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=27416|title=Windows and Windows Server Developer Preview Compatibility Cookbook|publisher=Microsoft|date=March 27, 2012|access-date=October 26, 2012}}</ref>{{Rp|74|date=November 2012}}

==Hardware requirements==

===PCs===
The minimum system requirements for Windows 8 are higher than [[Windows 7#System requirements|those of Windows 7]]. The [[Central processing unit|CPU]] must support the [[Physical Address Extension]] (PAE), [[NX bit]], and [[SSE2]]. Windows Store apps require a screen resolution of 1024×768 or higher to run; a resolution of 1366×768 or higher is required to use the snap functionality.<ref>{{cite web|title=Upgrade to Windows 8|url=https://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=October 25, 2012}}</ref> To receive certification, Microsoft requires candidate x86 systems to resume from standby in 2 seconds or less.<ref name="withinwindows.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.withinwindows.com/2012/01/16/windows-8-secrets-pc-and-device-requirements/|title=Windows 8 Secrets: PC and Device Requirements|publisher=Withinwindows.com|date=January 16, 2012|access-date=April 22, 2012|archive-date=May 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502174309/http://www.withinwindows.com/2012/01/16/windows-8-secrets-pc-and-device-requirements/|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{Better source needed|reason=Cite actual MS website instead of just a blog|date=May 2013}}

{|class=wikitable style=text-align:center;margin:auto
|+Minimum hardware requirements for Windows 8<ref>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 system requirements|url=https://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/system-requirements|work=Windows Help|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=December 15, 2012}}</ref>
|-
!Component
!Minimum
!Recommended
|-
![[Central processing unit|Processor]]
|1 [[Gigahertz|GHz]] [[clock rate]]<br>[[IA-32]] or [[x64]] architecture<br>Support for [[Physical Address Extension|PAE]], [[NX bit|NX]] and [[SSE2]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/hh975398.aspx|title=PAE/NX/SSE2 Support Requirement Guide for Windows 8|access-date=June 4, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=What is PAE, NX, and SSE2 and why does my PC need to support them to run Windows 8?|url=https://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/what-is-pae-nx-sse2|work=Windows Help|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=December 15, 2012}}</ref>
|[[x64]] architecture<br>[[Second Level Address Translation]] (SLAT) support for [[Hyper-V]]
|-
![[Random-access memory|Memory (RAM)]]
|'''IA-32 edition:''' 1 [[Gigabyte|GB]]<br>'''x64 edition:''' 2 [[Gigabyte|GB]]
|4 [[Gigabyte|GB]]
|-
![[Graphics Card]]
|[[DirectX 9]] graphics device<br>[[Windows Display Driver Model|WDDM]] 1.0 or higher driver
|[[DirectX 10]] graphics device
|-
![[Computer monitor|Display screen]]
|{{N/A}}
|1024×768 [[pixel]]s
|-
!Input device
|[[Computer keyboard|Keyboard]] and [[mouse (computing)|mouse]]
|[[multi-touch]] [[Computer monitor|display screen]]
|-
!Hard disk space
|'''IA-32 edition:''' 16 [[Gigabyte|GB]]<br>'''x64 edition:''' 20 [[Gigabyte|GB]]
|{{N/A}}
|-
!Other
|{{N/A}}
|[[UEFI]] v2.3.1 Errata B with Microsoft Windows Certification Authority in its database<br>[[Trusted Platform Module]] (TPM)<br>Internet connectivity
|}

Microsoft's [[Connected Standby]] specification, which hardware vendors may optionally comply with, sets new power consumption requirements that are higher than the above minimum specifications.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248729.aspx|title=Introduction to Connected Standby|date=September 28, 2012|publisher=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> Included in this standard are a number of security-specific requirements designed to improve [[physical security]], notably against [[Cold Boot Attack]]s.

32-bit [[Stock keeping unit|SKUs]] of Windows 8 only support a maximum of 4 GB of RAM. 64-bit SKUs, however, support more: Windows 8 x64 supports 128 GB while Windows 8 Pro and Enterprise x64 support 512 GB.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/aa366778%28v=vs.85%29.aspx#physical_memory_limits_windows_8|title=Memory Limits for Windows and Windows Server Releases|work=[[MSDN]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|at=Physical Memory Limits: Windows 8}}</ref>

In January 2016, Microsoft announced that, effective July 17, 2018, it would no longer support Windows 8.1 or 7 on devices using Intel's [[Skylake (microarchitecture)|Skylake]] CPU family, and that all future CPU microarchitectures, as well as Skylake systems after this date, would only be supported on [[Windows 10]]. After the deadline, only critical security updates would be released for users on these platforms.<ref name=ars-skylake18months>{{cite web|title=Skylake users given 18 months to upgrade to Windows 10|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/01/skylake-users-given-18-months-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/|website=[[Ars Technica]]|date=January 16, 2016|publisher=[[Condé Nast]]|access-date=January 16, 2016}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-newsupportpolicy>{{cite web|last1=Bott|first1=Ed|title=Microsoft updates support policy: New CPUs will require Windows 10|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-updates-support-policy-new-cpus-will-require-windows-10/|website=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=January 16, 2016}}</ref><ref name="ars-oemskylake">{{cite web|title=Skylake support on Windows 7 and 8.1 given a one-year extension|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/03/skylake-support-on-windows-7-and-8-1-given-a-one-year-extension/|website=[[Ars Technica]]|date=March 18, 2016|publisher=[[Condé Nast]]|access-date=March 18, 2016}}</ref><ref name="cw-skylakechange">{{cite web|title=Microsoft backtracks on Windows 7 support deadline|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/3046032/windows-pcs/microsoft-backtracks-on-windows-7-support-deadline.html|website=[[Computerworld]]|date=March 18, 2016|publisher=[[IDG]]|access-date=March 18, 2016}}</ref> When this new policy faced criticism from users and enterprise customers, Microsoft partially retracted the change and stated that both operating systems would remain supported on Skylake hardware through the end of their extended-support lifecycle. Windows 8.1 remains officially unsupported on all newer CPU families, and neither AMD or Intel will provide official chipset [[device driver|drivers]] for Windows operating systems other than Windows 10.<ref>{{cite web|title=AMD: Sorry, there will be no official Ryzen drivers for Windows 7|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/3167279/computers/amd-sorry-there-will-be-no-official-ryzen-drivers-for-windows-7.html|website=PC World|date=February 8, 2017|publisher=IDG|access-date=April 23, 2017}}</ref><ref name="zdnet.com"/> However, in August 2016, Microsoft again extended the Skylake support policy until the end of support for Windows 7 and 8.1 (2020 and 2023, respectively).<ref>{{cite web|last1=Larsen|first1=Shad|title=Updates to Silicon Support Policy for Windows|url=https://blogs.windows.com/business/2016/08/11/updates-to-silicon-support-policy-for-windows/#takHPJavZfA9UMEA.97|website=Windows|access-date=May 9, 2017|language=en|date=August 11, 2016|archive-date=April 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425131840/https://blogs.windows.com/business/2016/08/11/updates-to-silicon-support-policy-for-windows/#takHPJavZfA9UMEA.97|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="zdnet.com">{{cite news|last1=Jo Foley|first1=Mary|title=Microsoft extends again support for Windows 7, 8.1 Skylake-based devices|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-extends-again-support-for-windows-7-8-1-skylake-based-devices/|access-date=May 9, 2017|date=August 11, 2016|language=en}}</ref>

===Tablets and convertibles===
Microsoft released minimum hardware requirements for tablet and [[laplet]] devices to be "certified" for Windows 8 and defined a convertible form factor as a standalone device that combines the PC, display, and rechargeable power source with a mechanically attached keyboard and pointing device in a single chassis. A convertible can be transformed into a tablet where the attached input devices are hidden or removed, leaving the display as the only input mechanism.<ref>{{cite web|last=Crothers|first=Brooke|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-13924_3-57360734-64/microsoft-lays-out-window-8-tablet-hardware-requirements/|title=Microsoft lays out Window 8 tablet hardware requirements &#124; Nanotech—The Circuits Blog—CNET News|publisher=News.cnet.com|date=January 17, 2012|access-date=April 22, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Newman|first=Jared|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/248279/windows_8_tablet_requirements_revealed.html|title=Windows 8 Tablet Requirements Revealed|publisher=PCWorld|date=January 27, 2012|access-date=April 22, 2012}}</ref> On March 12, 2013, Microsoft amended its certification requirements to only require that screens on tablets have a minimum resolution of 1024×768 (down from the previous 1366×768). The amended requirement is intended to allow "greater design flexibility" for future products.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab>{{cite web|title=New Windows 8 hardware specs hint at 7-inch tablets and a Microsoft Reader|url=https://www.zdnet.com/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader-7000013271/|publisher=ZDNet|access-date=March 29, 2013}}</ref>

{|class=wikitable style=margin:auto
|+Hardware certification requirements for Windows tablets<ref>{{cite web|url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/hh748200.aspx|title=Windows 8 Hardware Certification Requirements|work=[[MSDN]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=April 22, 2012}}</ref>
|-
![[Graphics card]]
|DirectX 10 graphics device with WDDM 1.2 or higher driver
|-
![[Storage (memory)|Storage]]
|10&nbsp;GB free space, after the out-of-box experience completes
|-
!Standard buttons
|{{Key press|Power}}, {{Key press|Rotation lock}}, {{Key press|Windows key}}, {{Key press|Volume up}}, {{Key press|Volume down}}
|-
![[Computer monitor|Screen]]
|[[Touch screen]] supporting a minimum of 5-point digitizers and resolution of at least 1024×768. The physical dimensions of the display panel must match the aspect ratio of the native resolution, which can be greater than 1024 (horizontally) and 768 (vertically). Minimum native color depth is 32-bits. If the display resolution is below 1366×768, disclaimers must be included in documentation to notify users that the Snap function is not available.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab/>
|-
!Camera
|Minimum [[720p]]
|-
![[Accelerometer]]
|3 axes with data rates at or above 50&nbsp;Hz
|-
![[USB 2.0]]
|At least one controller and exposed port.
|-
!Connect
|[[Wi-Fi]] and [[Bluetooth low energy|Bluetooth 4.0 + LE (low energy)]]
|-
!Other
|[[Computer speaker|Speaker]], [[microphone]], [[magnetometer]] and [[gyroscope]].
If a mobile broadband device is integrated into a tablet or convertible system, then an [[assisted GPS]] radio is required. Devices supporting [[near field communication]] need to have visual marks to help users locate and use the proximity technology. The new interrupt button combination, to replace [[Control-Alt-Delete|Ctrl + Alt + Del]], is Windows Key + Power.
|}

Updated certification requirements were implemented to coincide with Windows 8.1. As of 2014, all certified devices with integrated displays must contain a 720p webcam and higher quality speakers and microphones, while all certified devices that support Wi-Fi must support Bluetooth as well. As of 2015, all certified devices must contain [[Trusted Platform Module|Trusted Platform Module 2.0]] chips.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lee|first=Nicole|title=Microsoft sets new hardware certification requirements for Windows 8.1|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/07/12/microsoft-new-hardware-certification-requirements-for-windows8.1/|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|access-date=July 12, 2013|date=July 12, 2013|archive-date=July 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130715043927/http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/12/microsoft-new-hardware-certification-requirements-for-windows8.1|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=zdnet-cert1415>{{cite web|title=New Bluetooth, audio, TPM requirements coming for Windows 8 devices|url=https://www.zdnet.com/new-bluetooth-audio-tpm-requirements-coming-for-windows-8-devices-7000018003/|work=ZDNet|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=September 18, 2013}}</ref>

==Editions==
{{Main|Windows 8 editions}}

Windows 8 is available in three different editions—''Windows 8'', ''Windows 8 Pro'', and ''Windows 8 Enterprise''—were sold at retail in most countries, with ''Windows 8'', the most basic, being pre-loaded on new computers. Each edition of Windows 8 includes all of the capabilities and features of the edition preceding it, and add additional features oriented towards their market segments. For example, ''Pro'' added [[BitLocker]], [[Hyper-V]], the ability to join a [[Windows domain|domain]], and the ability to install [[Windows Media Center]] as a paid add-on. Users of ''Windows 8'' can purchase a "Pro Pack" license that upgrades their system to ''Windows 8 Pro'' through [[Windows Anytime Upgrade|Add features to Windows]]. This license also includes Windows Media Center.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice">{{cite web|url=https://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/microsoft_news/240003119|title=Microsoft Reveals Windows 8 Upgrade Price|publisher=InformationWeek|date=July 3, 2012|access-date=July 4, 2012|first=Paul|last=McDougall|archive-date=July 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120705211514/http://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/microsoft_news/240003119|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-book-guide-product-editions-144067|title=Windows 8 Secrets, Beyond the Book: Guide to Product Editions|work=Supersite for Windows|publisher=Penton|access-date=July 24, 2015|archive-date=July 25, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150725062405/http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-book-guide-product-editions-144067|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Blogging Windows">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2012/04/16/announcing-the-windows-8-editions/|title=Announcing the Windows 8 Editions|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=April 16, 2012|access-date=April 17, 2012|archive-date=August 2, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802140736/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2012/04/16/announcing-the-windows-8-editions/|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Windows 8 Enterprise'' contains additional features aimed towards business environments, and is only available through [[volume licensing]].<ref name="Blogging Windows"/> A port of Windows 8 for [[ARM architecture]], [[Windows RT]], is marketed as an edition of Windows 8, but was only included as pre-loaded software on devices specifically developed for it.<ref name="Blogging Windows"/>

Windows 8 was distributed as a retail box product on [[DVD]], and through a [[digital distribution|digital download]] that could be converted into DVD or [[USB flash drive|USB]] install media. From its launch until January 31, 2013, as part of a launch promotion, Microsoft offered ''Windows 8 Pro'' upgrades at a discounted price of US$39.99 online, or $69.99 for a retail box; afterward the ''Windows 8'' price has been $119.99 and the Pro price $199.99.<ref name="windowsblog8upgrade">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/07/02/upgrade-to-windows-8-pro-for-39-99.aspx|title=Upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99|work=The Windows Blog|date=July 2, 2012|access-date=July 29, 2012|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|first=Brandon|last=LeBlanc}}</ref><ref name="15dollarupgradeconfirmed">{{cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9227649/Update_Microsoft_confirms_15_Windows_8_upgrade|title=Update: Microsoft confirms $15 Windows 8 upgrade|work=[[Computerworld]]|publisher=[[IDG]]|date=July 1, 2012|access-date=July 4, 2012|first=Gregg|last=Keizer}}</ref> Those who purchased new PCs pre-loaded with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013, could digitally purchase a Windows 8 Pro upgrade for US$14.99.<ref name="paulthurrottleak">{{cite web|url=https://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/windows-8-pro-pc-upgrade-cost-15-143077|title=Windows 8 Pro PC Upgrade Cost Is Just $15|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|date=May 14, 2012|access-date=July 4, 2012|first=Paul|last=Thurrott|author-link=Paul Thurrott|archive-date=July 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120702033234/http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/windows-8-pro-pc-upgrade-cost-15-143077|url-status=dead}}</ref> Several PC manufacturers offered [[Rebate (marketing)|rebates]] and refunds on Windows 8 upgrades obtained through promotions on select models, such as those of [[Hewlett-Packard]] (in the U.S. and Canada on select models) and [[Acer Inc.|Acer]] (in Europe on selected [[Ultrabook]] models).<ref name=pcmag-acerup>{{cite web|title=Acer Offering Free Windows 8 Pro Upgrades for Ultrabook Buyers|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2407108,00.asp|work=PC Magazine|access-date=September 18, 2012}}</ref><ref name=ts-hpwin8>{{cite web|title=HP offering Windows 8 upgrade refund on select PCs|date=August 27, 2012 |url=https://www.techspot.com/news/49931-hp-offering-windows-8-upgrade-refund-on-select-pcs.html|publisher=TechSpot|access-date=September 18, 2012}}</ref> During these promotions, the Windows Media Center add-on for ''Windows 8 Pro'' was also offered for free.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice"/>

Unlike previous versions of Windows, Windows 8 was distributed at retail only under "Upgrade" licenses, which require an onboard version of Windows to install. The "full version software" SKU, which was more expensive but could be installed on computers without an eligible OS or none at all, was discontinued. In lieu of a full version, a specialized "System Builder" SKU was introduced. The "System Builder" replaced the [[original equipment manufacturer]] (OEM) SKU, which was only allowed for use on PCs meant for resale but added a "Personal Use License" exemption that officially allowed its purchase and personal use by users on [[homebuilt computer]]s.<ref name="zdnet-everything81"/><ref name=smh-misleading>{{cite web|last=Moses|first=Asher|title=Windows 8 upgrade boxes 'mislead' customers|url=https://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/computers/windows-8-upgrade-boxes-mislead-customers-20121128-2acwx.html|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=November 28, 2012|publisher=[[Fairfax Media]]|access-date=November 29, 2012}}</ref><ref name=cnet-productkey>{{cite web|last=Whitney|first=Lance|title=Windows 8 moves to BIOS-based product keys|url=https://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|publisher=CNET|access-date=November 29, 2012}}</ref>

Retail distribution of Windows 8 has since been discontinued in favor of [[Windows 8.1]]. Unlike Windows 8, 8.1 is available as "full version software" as both a packaged DVD and online for download, and does not require a previous version of Windows in order to be installed. Pricing for these new copies remains identical with that of Windows 8.<ref name=ms-8.1skus>{{cite web|title=Pricing and Packaging for Windows 8.1|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/09/17/pricing-and-packaging-for-windows-8-1.aspx|work=Blogging Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=September 18, 2013|archive-date=September 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130920164641/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/09/17/pricing-and-packaging-for-windows-8-1.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> With the retail release of Windows 8.1 returning to being full version software, the "Personal Use License" exemption was removed from the OEM SKU, meaning that end users building their own PCs for personal use must use the full retail variant in order to satisfy the Windows 8.1 licensing requirements.<ref name="zdnet-everything81">{{cite web|last1=Bott|first1=Ed|title=Everything you need to know about your Windows 8.1 upgrade options|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/everything-you-need-to-know-about-your-windows-8-1-upgrade-options/|website=ZDNet|access-date=January 26, 2015|date=October 4, 2013}}</ref> ''Windows 8.1 with Bing'' is a special OEM-specific SKU of ''Windows 8.1'' subsidized by Microsoft's [[Bing (search engine)|Bing]] search engine.<ref name=ms-windows8withbing/>

==Software compatibility==
The three desktop editions of Windows 8 support 32-bit and 64-bit architectures; retail copies of Windows 8 include install DVDs for both architectures, while the online installer automatically installs the variant corresponding with the architecture of the system's existing Windows installation.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice"/><ref name=pt-8box>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 Pro Retail Box|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-pro-retail-box|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=September 18, 2013|archive-date=September 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130913143811/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-pro-retail-box|url-status=dead}}</ref> The 32-bit variant runs on CPUs compatible with the [[Intel 80786|3rd generation]] of the [[x86]] architecture (known as [[IA-32]]) or newer, and can run [[32-bit]] and [[16-bit]] [[application software|applications]], although 16-bit support must be enabled first.<ref name="neowin on 16-bit">{{cite web|last=Callaham|first=John|title=Microsoft: Windows 8 32-bit can still run 16-bit apps|url=https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-windows-8-32-bit-can-still-run-16-bit-apps|work=Neowin.net|publisher=Neowin|access-date=December 16, 2012|date=May 16, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 will run 16-bit apps, says Microsoft|url=https://www.winbeta.org/news/windows-8-will-run-16-bit-apps-says-microsoft|work=WinBeta|access-date=December 16, 2012|date=May 16, 2012|archive-date=February 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228023059/http://www.winbeta.org/news/windows-8-will-run-16-bit-apps-says-microsoft|url-status=dead}}</ref> (16-bit applications are developed for CPUs compatible with [[Intel 80786|x86 2nd generation, first conceived in 1978]]. Microsoft started moving away from this architecture after [[Windows 95]].<ref name="neowin on 16-bit"/>)

The 64-bit variant runs on CPUs compatible with the [[Intel 80786|8th generation]] of x86 (known as [[x86-64]], or x64) or newer, and can run 32-bit and [[64-bit]] programs. 32-bit programs and operating system are restricted to supporting only {{nowrap|4 [[gigabyte]]s}} of memory, while 64-bit systems can theoretically support {{nowrap|2048 gigabytes}} of memory.<ref name=64vs32>{{cite web|title=32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions|url=https://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/32-bit-and-64-bit-Windows-frequently-asked-questions|work=Windows Support portal|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=December 16, 2012}}</ref> 64-bit operating systems require a different set of device drivers than those of 32-bit operating systems.<ref name=64vs32/>

Windows RT, the only edition of Windows 8 for systems with [[ARM architecture|ARM]] processors, only supports applications included with the system (such as a special variant of [[Office 2013]]), supplied through Windows Update, or Windows Store apps, to ensure that the system only runs applications that are optimized for the architecture. Windows RT does not support running IA-32 or x64 applications.<ref name="b8-20120209">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/02/09/building-windows-for-the-arm-processor-architecture.aspx|title=Building Windows for the ARM processor architecture|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=February 9, 2012|access-date=February 14, 2012}}</ref> Windows Store apps can either support both the x86 and ARM architectures, or can be compiled to support another specific architecture.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/13/welcome-to-windows-8-the-developer-preview.aspx|title=Welcome to Windows 8—The Developer Preview|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=March 11, 2012}}</ref>

Support for IE10 on [[Windows Server 2012]]<ref name="cw-ie11support">{{Cite web|date=December 2015|title=Nearly 370M IE users have just 6 weeks to upgrade|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/3010555/web-browsers/nearly-370m-ie-users-have-just-6-weeks-to-upgrade.html|access-date=December 12, 2015|website=Computerworld|publisher=IDG}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/faq/internet-explorer-microsoft-edge|title=Lifecycle FAQ - Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge|website=docs.microsoft.com}}</ref> and [[Windows Embedded 8 Standard]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Internet Explorer Support Lifecycle Policy FAQ|url=https://support2.microsoft.com/gp/microsoft-internet-explorer/en-us|access-date=April 10, 2016|work=Microsoft Lifecycle Support Website}}</ref> ended on January 31, 2020.

==Reception==
[[File:TorontoMicrosoftStore.JPG|thumb|Windows 8 [[ultrabook]]s device showcase in a [[Microsoft Store (retail)|Microsoft Store]] in [[Toronto]]|alt=]]

===Pre-release===
<!--Maybe put reviews of the preview builds here too? -->
Following the unveiling of Windows 8, Microsoft faced criticism (particularly from [[free software]] supporters) for mandating that devices receiving its optional certification for Windows 8 have secure boot enabled by default using a key provided by Microsoft. Concerns were raised that secure boot could [[Vendor lock-in|prevent or hinder]] the use of alternate operating systems such as [[Linux]]. In a post discussing secure boot on the ''Building Windows 8'' blog, Microsoft developer Tony Mangefeste indicated that vendors would provide means to customize secure boot, stating that "At the end of the day, the customer is in control of their PC. Microsoft's philosophy is to provide customers with the best experience first, and allow them to make decisions themselves."<ref name="building-secureboot">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx|title=Protecting the pre-OS environment with UEFI|first=Tony|last=Mangefeste|date=September 22, 2011|publisher=Building Windows 8|access-date=October 17, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120802042640/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx|archive-date=August 2, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html|title=Windows 8 Secure Boot: The Controversy Continues|work=PCWorld|publisher=IDG|first=Katherine|last=Noyes|date=January 18, 2012|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref> Microsoft's certification guidelines for Windows 8 ultimately revealed that vendors would be required to provide means for users to re-configure or disable secure boot in their device's UEFI firmware. It also revealed that [[ARM architecture|ARM]] devices (Windows RT) would be required to have secure boot permanently enabled, with no way for users to disable it. However, Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' noted that other vendors have implemented similar hardware restrictions on their own ARM-based tablet and smartphone products (including those running Microsoft's own [[Windows Phone]] platform), but still argued that Microsoft should "keep a consistent approach across ARM and x86, though, not least because of the number of users who'd love to run Android alongside Windows 8 on their future tablets."<ref name=warren>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/microsoft/2012/1/16/2710502/microsoft-secure-boot-windows-8-arm|title=Windows 8 ARM devices won't have the option to switch off Secure Boot|first=Tom|last=Warren|work=[[The Verge]]|date=January 16, 2012|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref name="wired-sb">{{Cite magazine|last=Garling|first=Caleb|url=https://www.wired.com/wiredenterprise/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-sparks-linux-furor-and-a-microsoft-response/|title=Windows 8 Secure Boot Sparks Linux Furor, and a Microsoft Response|magazine=[[Wired.com]]|publisher=Condé Nast|date=September 23, 2011|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Jon|last=Brodkin|url=https://arstechnica.com/business/news/2012/01/microsoft-mandating-secure-boot-on-arm-making-linux-installs-difficult.ars|title=Microsoft mandating Secure Boot on ARM, making Linux installs difficult|work=[[Ars Technica]]|publisher=Condé Nast|date=January 16, 2012|access-date=August 3, 2012}}</ref> No mandate was given regarding the installation of third-party certificates that would enable running alternative programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.computerworlduk.com/blogs/open-enterprise/is-microsoft-blocking-linux-booting-on-arm-hardware-3569162/|title=Is Microsoft Blocking Linux Booting on ARM Hardware?|first=Glyn|last=Moody|date=January 12, 2012|work=[[Computerworld]]|publisher=[[IDG]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.computerworld.com/19577/why_microsoft_should_lift_the_possible_ban_on_linux_booting_on_windows_arm_devices|title=Why Microsoft should lift the possible ban on Linux booting on Windows 8 ARM devices|work=[[Computerworld]]|publisher=[[IDG]]|date=January 13, 2012|access-date=January 27, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120518223506/https://blogs.computerworld.com/19577/why_microsoft_should_lift_the_possible_ban_on_linux_booting_on_windows_arm_devices|archive-date=May 18, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=James|last=Niccolai|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9223446/Windows_8_on_ARM_You_can_look_but_you_can_t_touch|title=Windows 8 on ARM: You can look but you can't touch|work=[[Computerworld]]|publisher=[[IDG]]|date=January 13, 2012|access-date=January 27, 2012}}</ref>

Several notable video game developers criticized Microsoft for making its Windows Store a [[closed platform]], subject to its own regulations, as it conflicted with their view of the [[personal computer|PC]] as an [[open platform]]. [[Markus Persson|Markus "Notch" Persson]] (creator of the [[indie game]] ''[[Minecraft]]''),<ref name=bbc-win8minecraft>{{cite news|title=Minecraft creator attacks Microsoft's Windows 8 plan|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19760977|publisher=BBC|work=BBC News|date=September 28, 2012|access-date=October 16, 2012}}</ref> [[Gabe Newell]] (co-founder of [[Valve Corporation|Valve]] and developer of software distribution platform [[Steam (service)|Steam]]),<ref name=GabeNewell>{{cite web|title=Valve's Gabe Newell on the Future of Games, Wearable Computers, Windows 8 and More|url=https://allthingsd.com/20120725/valves-gabe-newell-on-the-future-of-games-wearable-computers-windows-8-and-more|work=All Things D|publisher=Dow Jones & Company|access-date=October 27, 2012}}</ref> and [[Rob Pardo]] from [[Activision Blizzard]] voiced concern about the closed nature of the Windows Store.<ref name=RobPardo>{{cite web|title=Blizzard's Rob Pardo: Windows 8 is "not awesome" for the company|url=https://www.neowin.net/news/blizzards-rob-pardo-windows-8-is-not-awesome-for-the-company|work=[[Neowin]]|publisher=Neowin, LLC|access-date=October 27, 2012}}</ref> However, Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' stated that Microsoft's addition of the Store was simply responding to the success of both Apple and Google in pursuing the "curated application store approach."<ref name=verge-w8/>

===Critical reception===
Reviews of the various editions of Windows 8 were mixed to negative. Tom Warren of ''[[The Verge]]'' said that although Windows 8's emphasis on touch computing was significant and risked alienating desktop users, he felt that Windows 8 tablets "[make] an [[iPad]] feel immediately out of date" due to the capabilities of the operating system's hybrid model and increased focus on cloud services.<ref name=verge-w8/> David Pierce of ''The Verge'' described Windows 8 as "the first desktop operating system that understands what a computer is supposed to do in 2012" and praised Microsoft's "no compromise" approach and the operating system's emphasis on Internet connectivity and cloud services. Pierce also considered the Start Screen to be a "brilliant innovation for desktop computers" when compared with "folder-littered desktops on every other OS" because it allows users to interact with dynamic information.<ref name="DavidPierce">{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/16/3246185/this-is-my-next-windows-8|title=This is my next: Windows 8|last=Pierce|first=David|date=August 16, 2012|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|work=The Verge|access-date=March 14, 2015}}</ref> In contrast, an ''[[ExtremeTech]]'' article said that Windows 8 was Microsoft "flailing",<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.extremetech.com/computing/99967-windows-8-is-microsoft-flailing|title=Windows 8: Is Microsoft flailing?|last=Cardinal|first=David|newspaper=Extremetech |date=October 14, 2011|access-date=April 17, 2013}}</ref> and a review in ''[[PC Magazine]]'' condemned the Metro-style user interface.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2393037,00.asp#fbid=rTzT1ufXaJM|title=Microsoft Stops, Drops, and Rolls with Metro|last=Dvorak|first=John|date=September 15, 2011|access-date=April 17, 2013}}</ref> Some of the included apps in Windows 8 were considered to be basic and lacking in functionality, but the Xbox apps were praised for their promotion of a multi-platform entertainment experience. Other improvements and features (such as File History, Storage Spaces, and the updated Task Manager) were also regarded as positive changes.<ref name=verge-w8>{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=Windows 8 review|url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/10/23/3537710/windows-8-review|work=[[The Verge]]|date=October 23, 2012|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=October 26, 2012}}</ref> Peter Bright of ''[[Ars Technica]]'' wrote that while its user interface changes may overshadow them, Windows 8's improved performance, updated file manager, new storage functionality, expanded security features, and updated Task Manager were still positive improvements for the operating system. Bright also said that Windows 8's duality towards tablets and traditional PCs was an "extremely ambitious" aspect of the platform as well, but criticized Microsoft for emulating [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]'s model of a closed distribution platform when implementing the Windows Store.<ref name=ars-w8review/>

The user interface of Windows 8 has been the subject of negative reaction. Bright wrote that its system of hot corners and edge swiping "wasn't very obvious" due to the lack of instructions provided by the operating system on the functions accessed through the user interface, even by the video tutorial added on the [[Software release life cycle#RTM|RTM]] release (which only instructed users to point at corners of the screen or swipe from its sides). Despite this "[[stumbling block]]", Bright said that Windows 8's interface worked well in some places, but began to feel incoherent when switching between the "Metro" and desktop environments, sometimes through inconsistent means.<ref name=ars-w8review>{{cite web|last=Bright|first=Peter|title=Windows, reimagined: A review of Windows 8|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/windows-reimagined-a-review-of-windows-8/|work=[[Ars Technica]]|date=October 25, 2012|publisher=[[Condé Nast]]|access-date=October 26, 2012}}</ref> Tom Warren of ''The Verge'' wrote that the new interface was "as stunning as it is surprising", contributing to an "incredibly personal" experience once it is customized by the user, but had a steep learning curve, and was awkward to use with a keyboard and mouse. He noted that while forcing all users to use the new touch-oriented interface was a risky move for Microsoft as a whole, it was necessary in order to push the development of apps for the Windows Store.<ref name=verge-w8/> Others, such as Adrian Kingsley-Hughes from [[ZDNet]], considered the interface to be "clumsy and impractical" due to its inconsistent design (going as far as considering it "two operating systems unceremoniously bolted together"), and concluded that "Windows 8 wasn't born out of a need or demand; it was born out of a desire on Microsoft's part to exert its will on the PC industry and decide to shape it in a direction—touch and tablets—that allows it to compete against, and remain relevant in the face of Apple's iPad."<ref>{{cite web|last=Kingsley-Hughes|first=Adrian|url=https://www.zdnet.com/blog/hardware/final-thoughts-on-windows-8-a-design-disaster/20706|title=Final thoughts on Windows 8: A design disaster|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=June 7, 2012|access-date=November 27, 2012}}</ref>

In 2013, [[Frank X. Shaw]], a Microsoft corporate vice president, said that while many of the negative reviews were extreme, it was a "good thing" that Microsoft was "listening to feedback and improving a product".<ref>{{cite web|last=Crothers|first=Brooke|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57584029-75/microsoft-responds-to-extreme-windows-8-criticism/|title=Microsoft responds to 'extreme' Windows 8 criticism|work=[[CNET News]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=May 11, 2013|access-date=May 15, 2013}}</ref>

The [[American Customer Satisfaction Index]] (ACSI) reported a decline in Microsoft's customer satisfaction, the lowest it has been since [[Windows Vista]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theacsi.org/|title=The American Customer Satisfaction Index|website=The American Customer Satisfaction Index}}</ref>

===Market share and sales===
Microsoft says that about 4 million users upgraded to Windows 8 over the weekend after its release,<ref>{{cite web|last=Vormack|first=Lindsay|title=Microsoft confirms 4 million Windows 8 upgrades over opening weekend|url=https://www.itpro.co.uk/643867/microsoft-confirms-4-million-windows-8-upgrades-over-opening-weekend|work=IT PRO|publisher=Dennis Publishing|date=October 31, 2012|access-date=October 31, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Kingsley-Hughes|first=Adrian|title=Microsoft's Ballmer not ready to reveal Windows 8, Surface sales|url=https://www.zdnet.com/microsofts-ballmer-not-ready-to-reveal-windows-8-surface-sales-7000006602/|work=[[ZDNet]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=October 30, 2012|access-date=October 31, 2012}}</ref> which CNET says was well below Microsoft's internal projections and was described inside the company as disappointing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Crothers|first=Brooke|title=Windows 8 sales 'well below' projections, report claims|url=https://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57551433-75/windows-8-sales-well-below-projections-report-claims/|work=[[CNET]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=November 19, 2012|date=November 16, 2012}}</ref>

On November 27, 2012, Microsoft announced that it had sold 40 million licenses of Windows 8 in the first month, surpassing the pace of Windows 7.<ref name="40m-sold">{{cite web|title=Windows 8—40 Million Licenses Sold|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/11/27/windows-8-40-million-licenses-sold.aspx|work=Blogging Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|first=Brandon|last=LeBlanc|date=November 27, 2012|access-date=November 27, 2012}}</ref>

However, according to research firm NPD, sales of devices running Windows in the United States had declined 21 percent compared to the same time period in 2011.<ref>{{cite web|last=Albanesius|first=Chloe|title=Windows 8 Sees 'Slow Start,' Analysts Say|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412635,00.asp|work=[[PC Magazine]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=November 29, 2012|access-date=December 4, 2012}}</ref> As the holiday shopping season wrapped up, Windows 8 sales continued to lag, even as Apple reported brisk sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/24/technology/tepid-sales-of-microsofts-windows-8-point-to-shaky-market.html|title=Windows 8 Sales Disappoint in Shaky PC Market|access-date=December 28, 2012|date=December 23, 2012|first=Nick|last=Wingfield|work=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref> The market research firm [[International Data Corporation|IDC]] reported an overall drop in PC sales for the quarter, and said the drop may have been partly due to consumer reluctance to embrace the new features of the OS and poor support from OEM for these features.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.networkworld.com/news/2013/011113-windows8-update-265762.html|title=Windows 8 Update: IDC blames bad quarter for PC sales on Windows 8|work=Network World|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=January 11, 2013|access-date=March 24, 2013|first=Tim|last=Greene|archive-date=April 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404021517/http://www.networkworld.com/news/2013/011113-windows8-update-265762.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> This capped the first year of declining PC sales to the Asia Pacific region, as consumers bought more mobile devices than Windows PCs.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muncaster|first=Phil|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/01/23/lenovo_on_top_apac_pc_falls/|title=APAC PC shipments FALL for first time ever in 2012|work=[[The Register]]|publisher=Situation Publishing|date=January 23, 2013|access-date=March 24, 2013}}</ref>

Windows 8 surpassed [[Windows Vista]] in market share, with a 5.1% usage rate, according to numbers posted in July 2013 by [[Net Applications]], with usage on a steady upward trajectory.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harvey|first=Cynthia|url=https://www.datamation.com/news/net-applications-windows-8-captures-5.1-market-share.html|title=Net Applications: Windows 8 Captures 5.1% Market Share|work=Datamation|publisher=[[Quinstreet]]|date=July 1, 2013|access-date=July 8, 2013}}</ref> However, intake of Windows 8 still lagged behind that of [[Windows Vista]] and [[Windows 7]] at the same point in their release cycles. Windows 8's tablet market share also grew steadily, with 7.4% of tablets running Windows in Q1 2013, according to Strategy Analytics, up from nothing just a year before. However, this was still well below [[Android OS|Android]] and [[Apple iOS|iOS]], which posted 43.4% and 48.2% market share respectively, although both operating systems had been on the market much longer than Windows 8.<ref name="Strategy Analytics">{{cite web|first=Natasha|last=Lomas|url=https://techcrunch.com/2013/04/25/strategy-analytics-q1-tablet-stats/|title=Windows 8 Wins 7.4% Share of Global Tablet OS Market in Q1 – "Niche" Portion Still Beats Windows Phone's Smartphone Share|work=[[TechCrunch]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=April 25, 2013|access-date=May 20, 2013}}</ref> Strategy Analytics also noted "a shortage of top tier apps" for Windows tablets despite Microsoft strategy of paying developers to create apps for the operating system (in addition to those for Windows Phone).<ref name="Strategy Analytics"/>

In March 2013, Microsoft also amended its certification requirements to allow tablets to use the 1024×768 resolution as a minimum; this change is expected to allow the production of certified Windows 8 tablets in smaller form factors—a market which is currently dominated by Android-based tablets.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab/> Despite the reaction of industry experts, Microsoft reported that they had sold 100 million licenses in the first six months. This matched sales of Windows 7 over a similar period.<ref>[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-microsoft-windows8-sales-idUSBRE94603220130507 Windows 8 hits 100 million sales, tweaks for mini-tablets in works] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719205803/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-microsoft-windows8-sales-idUSBRE94603220130507|date=July 19, 2021}}, Reuters, May 7, 2013</ref> This statistic includes shipments to channel warehouses which now need to be sold in order to make way for new shipments.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.channelregister.co.uk/2013/06/25/garnter_burns_2013_pc_forecast/|title=Windows 8 hype has hurt PC makers and distributors – Gartner|work=[[The Register|Channel Register]]|date=June 25, 2013|access-date=June 29, 2013}}</ref>

In January 2014, [[Hewlett-Packard]] began a promotion for desktops running Windows 7, saying that it was "back by popular demand". Outside sources have suggested that this might be because HP or its customers thought the Windows 8 platform would be more appropriate for mobile computing than desktop computing, or that they were looking to attract customers forced to switch from XP, who wanted a more familiar interface.<ref name=verge-hp7>{{cite web|title=HP brings back Windows 7 'by popular demand'|url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/1/20/5326844/hp-brings-back-windows-7-by-popular-demand|work=The Verge|date=January 20, 2014|access-date=January 20, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2089403/ouch-hp-brings-windows-7-back-by-popular-demand.html|title=Ouch: HP brings Windows 7 'back by popular demand'|date=January 20, 2014|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|access-date=January 20, 2014}}</ref>

In February 2014, [[Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]] reported that Microsoft would be lowering the price of Windows 8 licenses by 70% for devices that retail under US$250; alongside the announcement that an update to the operating system would allow OEMs to produce devices with as little as 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, critics felt that these changes would help Windows compete against Linux-based devices in the low-end market, particularly those running [[ChromeOS]]. Microsoft had similarly cut the price of [[Windows XP]] licenses to compete against the early waves of Linux-based [[netbook]]s.<ref name=verge-springupdate>{{cite web|title=Microsoft announces 'spring' update for Windows 8.1|url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/2/23/5438734/microsoft-announces-spring-update-for-windows-8-1|work=The Verge|date=February 23, 2014|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=February 23, 2014}}</ref><ref name=verge-lowercost>{{cite web|title=Microsoft combats Chromebooks by cutting Windows licensing fees by 70 percent|url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/2/21/5435152/windows-8-1-license-fees-cut-by-70-percent-rumor|work=The Verge|date=February 21, 2014|access-date=February 23, 2014}}</ref> Reports also indicated that Microsoft was planning to offer cheaper Windows 8 licenses to OEMs in exchange for setting Internet Explorer's default search engine to [[Bing (search engine)|Bing]]. Some media outlets falsely reported that the SKU associated with this plan, "Windows 8.1 with Bing", was a variant which would be a free or low-cost variant of Windows 8 for consumers using older versions of Windows.<ref name=bn-81bing>{{cite web|title=Leaked help files reveal details on Windows 8.1 Update, and Windows 8.1 with Bing|url=https://betanews.com/2014/03/06/leaked-help-files-reveal-details-on-windows-8-1-update-and-windows-8-1-with-bing/|work=BetaNews|date=March 6, 2014|access-date=March 6, 2014}}</ref> On April 2, 2014, Microsoft ultimately announced that it would be removing license fees entirely for devices with screens smaller than 9 inches,<ref name=verge-free9inch>{{cite web|title=Microsoft making Windows free on devices with screens under 9 inches|url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/4/2/5574146/microsoft-making-windows-free-on-devices-with-screens-under-nine/in/5338899|work=The Verge|date=April 2, 2014|access-date=April 2, 2014}}</ref> and officially confirmed the rumored "Windows 8.1 with Bing" OEM SKU on May 23, 2014.<ref name=ms-windows8withbing>{{cite web|title=Helping our hardware partners build lower cost Windows devices|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2014/05/23/helping-our-hardware-partners-build-lower-cost-windows-devices.aspx|work=Windows Experience Blog|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=May 23, 2014|archive-date=May 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523225224/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/windowsexperience/archive/2014/05/23/helping-our-hardware-partners-build-lower-cost-windows-devices.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Based on information gathered by Net Applications, the market share of Windows 8 had consistently dropped below the 1% mark by June 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide|url=https://gs.statcounter.com/os-version-market-share/windows/desktop/worldwide#monthly-202103-202210|access-date=2024-01-27|website=StatCounter Global Stats|language=en}}</ref>

===Chinese government ban===
In May 2014, the [[Government of China]] banned the internal purchase of Windows 8–based products under government contracts requiring "energy-efficient" devices. The [[Xinhua News Agency]] claimed that Windows 8 was being banned in protest of Microsoft's support lifecycle policy and the end of support for [[Windows XP]] (which, as of January 2014, had a market share of 49% in China), as the government "obviously cannot ignore the risks of running an OS without guaranteed technical support." However, Ni Guangnan of the [[Chinese Academy of Sciences]] had also previously warned that Windows 8 could allegedly expose users to [[Mass surveillance in the United States|surveillance by the United States government]] due to its heavy use of Internet-based services.<ref name="reuters-win8ban">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-microsoft-china-idUSBREA4J07Q20140520|title=China bans use of Microsoft's Windows 8 on government computers|work=[[Reuters]]|date=May 20, 2014|access-date=May 20, 2014}}</ref><ref name="bbc-xpwontdie">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-26432473|title=XP – the operating system that will not die|work=[[BBC News]]|date=March 5, 2014|access-date=March 25, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://sinosphere.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/03/09/china-warns-of-risks-in-plan-to-retire-windows-xp/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=1|title=China Warns of Risks in Plan to Retire Windows XP|work=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=March 24, 2014|last=Ramzy|first=Austin|date=March 9, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2157220/china-bans-government-purchases-of-windows-8-surprising-microsoft.html|title=China bans government purchases of Windows 8|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|work=[[PCWorld]]|date=May 20, 2014}}</ref>

In June 2014, state broadcaster [[China Central Television]] (CCTV) broadcast a news story further characterizing Windows 8 as a threat to national security. The story featured an interview with Ni Guangnan, who stated that operating systems could aggregate "sensitive user information" that could be used to "understand the conditions and activities of our national economy and society", and alleged that per [[Global surveillance disclosures (2013–present)|documents leaked by Edward Snowden]], the U.S. government had worked with Microsoft to retrieve encrypted information. Yang Min, a computer scientist at [[Fudan University]], also stated that "the security features of Windows 8 are basically to the benefit of Microsoft, allowing them control of the users' data, and that poses a big challenge to the national strategy for information security." Microsoft denied the claims in a number of posts on the Chinese social network [[Sina Weibo]], posts which stated that the company had never "assisted any government in an attack of another government or clients" or provided client data to the U.S. government, never "provided any government the authority to directly visit", or placed any [[Backdoor (computing)|backdoors]] in its products and services, and that it had never concealed government requests for client data.<ref name="cnet-clash">{{cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-china-clash-over-windows-8-and-charges-of-backdoor-spying/|title=Microsoft, China clash over Windows 8, backdoor-spying charges|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=June 6, 2014|website=[[CNET]]}}</ref><ref name="bloomberg-spat">{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-05/china-s-jiangsu-dropped-windows-8-earlier-this-year-cctv.html|title=Apple, Microsoft Targets of Chinese Media in U.S. Spat|work=[[Bloomberg News]]|date=June 5, 2014|access-date=June 6, 2014}}</ref><ref name="cw-retaliates">{{cite web|url=https://www.computerweekly.com/news/2240222085/Microsoft-retaliates-to-Chinas-Windows-8-spying-claims|title=Microsoft retaliates to China's Windows 8 spying claims|publisher=[[TechTarget]]|access-date=June 6, 2014|website=[[ComputerWeekly]]}}</ref>

==Windows 8.1==
{{Main|Windows 8.1}}

A feature update to Windows 8, known as [[Windows 8.1]], was officially announced by Microsoft on May 14, 2013.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://blogs.technet.com/b/microsoft_blog/archive/2013/03/26/looking-back-and-springing-ahead.aspx|title=Looking Back and Springing Ahead|work=The Official Microsoft Blog: News & Perspectives|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=March 26, 2013|access-date=July 17, 2013|first=Frank X.|last=Shaw|archive-date=July 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130702224122/https://blogs.technet.com/b/microsoft_blog/archive/2013/03/26/looking-back-and-springing-ahead.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="leblanc1">{{cite web|first=Brandon|last=LeBlanc|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/05/14/windows-keeps-getting-better.aspx|title=Windows Keeps Getting Better|work=Blogging Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=May 14, 2013|access-date=May 15, 2013|archive-date=May 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515142421/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/05/14/windows-keeps-getting-better.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following a presentation devoted to it at [[Build (developer conference)|Build 2013]], a public beta version of the upgrade was released on June 26, 2013.<ref name=pcw-81previewenterprise>{{cite web|title=Microsoft releases Windows 8.1 Enterprise preview with VDI, Windows to Go support|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2045561/microsoft-releases-windows-8-1-enterprise-preview-with-vdi-windows-to-go-support.html|work=PC World|access-date=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=Download and Install the Windows 8.1 Preview|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/download-and-install-windows-81-preview|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|author-link=Paul Thurrott|date=June 26, 2013|access-date=March 26, 2021|archive-date=October 29, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171029043459/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/download-and-install-windows-81-preview|url-status=dead}}</ref> Windows 8.1 was released to [[Release to manufacturing|OEM hardware partners]] (RTM) on August 27, 2013, and released publicly as a free upgrade through Windows Store on October 17, 2013.<ref name=ms-8.1skus/><ref>{{cite web|last=LeBlanc|first=Brandon|title=Mark your calendars for Windows 8.1!|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/08/14/mark-your-calendars-for-windows-8-1.aspx|work=Blogging Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=August 14, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://money.cnn.com/2013/08/14/technology/enterprise/windows-8-1-update/index.html|title=Windows 8.1 update coming October 18|work=CNN Money|date=August 14, 2013|publisher=[[Time Warner]]|access-date=August 14, 2013}}</ref> Volume license customers and subscribers to [[MSDN subscription|MSDN Plus]] and [[Microsoft TechNet#Subscriptions and downloads|TechNet Plus]] were initially unable to obtain the RTM version upon its release; a spokesperson said the policy was changed to allow Microsoft to work with OEMs "to ensure a quality experience at general availability."<ref name=ext-81rtm>{{cite news|title=Microsoft confirms Windows 8.1 RTM, but expect a large bug-fixing patch on release|url=https://www.extremetech.com/computing/164983-microsoft-confirms-windows-8-1-rtm-but-expect-a-large-bug-fixing-patch-on-release|work=[[ExtremeTech]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis Media]]|access-date=September 2, 2013|first=Sebastian|last=Anthony|date=August 27, 2013}}</ref><ref name=tnw-msdnsp1>{{cite web|title=Windows 7 SP1 RTM is out for MSDN and TechNet customers|url=https://thenextweb.com/microsoft/2011/02/16/windows-7-sp1-rtm-is-out-for-msdn-and-technet-customers/|work=TheNextWeb.com|publisher=The Next Web|access-date=September 2, 2013|first=Alex|last=Wilhelm|date=February 16, 2011}}</ref> However, after criticism, Microsoft reversed its decision and released the RTM build on MSDN and TechNet on September 9, 2013.<ref name=verge-rtmmsdn>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 now available on MSDN and TechNet following developer complaints|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/9/9/4710174/windows-8-1-msdn-technet-download-now-available|work=[[The Verge]]|date=September 9, 2013|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|access-date=September 10, 2013}}</ref>

Windows 8.1 addressed a number of criticisms faced by Windows 8 upon its release, with additional customization options for the Start screen, the restoration of a visible Start button on the desktop, the ability to snap up to four apps on a single display, and the ability to boot to the desktop instead of the Start screen. Windows 8's stock apps were also updated, a new [[Bing (search engine)|Bing]]-based unified search system was added, SkyDrive (now [[OneDrive]]) was given tighter integration with the operating system, and a number of new stock apps, along with a tutorial, were added.<ref name="verge-81handson">{{cite web|first=Evan|last=Rodgers|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/6/26/4465888/windows-8-1-preview-video|title=Windows 8.1: a first look at what Microsoft is changing|work=[[The Verge]]|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|date=June 26, 2013|access-date=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pcw-81review>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 review: The great compromise|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2048508/windows-8-1-review-the-great-compromise.html|work=PC World|access-date=September 24, 2013}}</ref><ref name=pt-81utility>{{cite web|title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: New Utility Apps|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-new-utility-apps|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=September 24, 2013|archive-date=September 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927191716/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-new-utility-apps|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=In Blue: Windows Store 2.0|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-windows-store-20|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton Media|Penton]]|access-date=June 18, 2013|author-link=Paul Thurrott|date=June 17, 2013|archive-date=June 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620173229/https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-windows-store-20|url-status=dead}}</ref> Windows 8.1 also added support for [[3D printing]],<ref name=engadget-81-3dprinting>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 to support 3D printing through native API|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|work=Engadget|date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=August 6, 2013}}</ref><ref name=windowsex-3dprinting81>{{cite web|title=3D Printing Support in Windows 8.1 Explained|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|work=Extreme Windows|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=August 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822184811/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Miracast]] media streaming, [[Near field communication|NFC]] printing, and [[Wi-Fi Direct]].<ref name="windows1">{{cite web|url=https://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/business/archive/2013/06/03/modern-business-in-mind-windows-8-1-at-teched-2013.aspx|title=Modern Business in Mind: Windows 8.1 at TechEd 2013|work=Windows for your business|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|date=June 3, 2013|access-date=June 3, 2013|archive-date=June 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603182625/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/business/archive/2013/06/03/modern-business-in-mind-windows-8-1-at-teched-2013.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Microsoft marketed Windows 8.1 as an "update" rather than as a "[[service pack]]", as it had done with such revisions for previous versions of Windows.<ref name=cw-updatenotanupdate>{{cite web|title=When is a Windows update not an update? When it's an upgrade|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9241315/When_is_a_Windows_update_not_an_update_When_it_s_an_upgrade|work=[[Computerworld]]|date=August 2, 2013|access-date=October 19, 2013}}</ref> Nonetheless, Microsoft's support lifecycle policy treats Windows 8.1 similarly, to previous Windows service packs: With the exception of Windows Embedded 8 Standard users, upgrading to 8.1 has been required to maintain access to mainstream support and updates after January 12, 2016.<ref name=maximumpc-81support/><ref name=cw-81cycle>{{cite web|title=Microsoft mandates Windows 8.1 upgrade|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9241230/Microsoft_mandates_Windows_8.1_upgrade|work=[[Computerworld]]|date=July 30, 2013|publisher=[[IDG]]|access-date=November 28, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Singh|first1=Manish|title=Microsoft Ends Support for Windows 8 on Tuesday|url=https://gadgets.ndtv.com/laptops/news/microsoft-ends-support-for-windows-8-on-tuesday-788864|access-date=January 20, 2016|work=Gadgets 360|date=January 12, 2016}}</ref> Although Windows 8 RTM is unsupported, Microsoft released an emergency security patch in May 2017 for Windows 8 RTM, as well as other unsupported versions of Windows (including [[Windows XP]] and [[Windows Server 2003]]), to address a vulnerability that was being leveraged by the [[WannaCry ransomware attack]].<ref name="verge-highlyunusual">{{cite web|title=Microsoft issues 'highly unusual' Windows XP patch to prevent massive ransomware attack|url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/5/13/15635006/microsoft-windows-xp-security-patch-wannacry-ransomware-attack|website=The Verge|date=May 13, 2017|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=May 13, 2017}}</ref><ref name="ms-wannacrypatch">{{cite web|title=Customer Guidance for WannaCrypt attacks|url=https://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/msrc/2017/05/12/customer-guidance-for-wannacrypt-attacks/|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=May 13, 2017}}</ref> Updates to apps published on Windows Store after July 1, 2019, are no longer available to Windows 8 RTM users.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.softpedia.com/news/microsoft-kills-off-windows-8-app-updates-earlier-than-anticipated-525724.shtml|title=Microsoft Kills Off Windows 8 App Updates Earlier than Anticipated|last=Popa|first=Bogdan|website=softpedia|date=April 19, 2019|language=en|access-date=April 19, 2019}}</ref>

Retail and OEM installations of Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro, and [[Windows RT]] can be upgraded through [[Windows Store]], free of charge. However, [[volume licensing|volume license]] customers, TechNet or MSDN subscribers, and users of Windows 8 Enterprise must acquire standalone installation media for 8.1 and install through the traditional Windows setup process, either as an in-place upgrade or clean install. This requires an 8.1-specific product key.<ref name=cw-81updateproblem>{{cite web|title=Small biz admins squawk over Windows 8.1 updates|url=https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9243345/Small_biz_admins_squawk_over_Windows_8.1_updates|work=[[Computerworld]]|date=October 18, 2013|publisher=[[IDG]]|access-date=October 18, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Why can't I find the update in the Store?|url=https://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/why-can-t-find-update-store|work=Windows portal|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=October 18, 2013}}</ref><ref name=supersite-81woes>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Upgrade Woes|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-upgrade-woes|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=October 19, 2013|archive-date=October 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131018210816/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-upgrade-woes|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=supersite-81enter>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Upgrade from Windows 8 Enterprise|url=https://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-upgrade-windows-8-enterprise|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=October 21, 2013|archive-date=October 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021154838/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-upgrade-windows-8-enterprise|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[List of operating systems]]
* [[Features new to Windows 8]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
{{Refbegin}}
* {{cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2015107/downgrading-from-windows-8-to-7-what-you-need-to-know.html|title=Downgrading from Windows 8 to Windows 7: What you need to know|work=[[PC World]]|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=November 20, 2012|access-date=November 21, 2012|first=Ian|last=Paul}}—Analysis of Windows 8 downgrade rights
{{Refend}}

{{Microsoft Windows family}}
{{Windows tablets}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Windows 8]]
[[Category:2012 software]]
[[Category:IA-32 operating systems]]
[[Category:Microsoft criticisms and controversies]]
[[Category:Tablet operating systems]]
[[Category:Windows NT|8]]
[[Category:X86-64 operating systems]]