Microsoft revealed today that it plans to launch the highly anticipated "Consumer Preview" version of Windows 8 on February 29th. The company will hold an event at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona on February 29th to launch the Windows 8 Consumer Preview between 3PM and 5PM (CET). The unusual choice of venue (a cellphone conference) could hint at the company's plans for the future of Windows 8 and Windows Phone.
Microsoft to launch Windows 8 ‘Consumer Preview’ on February 29th
Windows 8 “Consumer Preview” will be made available on February 29th.
Windows 8 “Consumer Preview” will be made available on February 29th.
is a senior correspondent and author of Notepad, who has been covering all things Microsoft, PC, and tech for over 20 years.
Details on Windows Phone 8, codenamed Apollo, leaked last week and revealed an interesting synergy between Windows Phone and Windows client. Not only will Windows Phone 8 share the same Metro style user interface as Windows 8 for tablets and PCs, but developers can reuse the same code for both operating systems. It’s not clear if Microsoft plans to discuss its Windows Phone 8 plans, but a Windows 8 Consumer Preview launch at Mobile World Congress makes it look that way.
Microsoft will unveil its Start Screen changes, customization and keyboard / mouse improvements with the latest preview, including a desktop mode without the traditional Start button orb. The Consumer Preview version of Windows 8 will also include some preinstalled Metro style applications, and provides access to the new Windows Store where users can download a range of games and applications.
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