QUOTE
Windows 8 desktop to be 'just another app,' says Microsoft exec
Conventional desktop UI won't load unless users want it
By Gregg Keizer
September 1, 2011 11:14 AM ET
Computerworld - The Microsoft executive who heads the company's Windows division said Wednesday that the next edition of the operating system will let users treat the traditional desktop as "just another app" that loads only on command.
In a lengthy blog post, Steven Sinofsky, president of Microsoft's Windows and Windows Live division, provided more detail on Windows 8's user interface (UI).
In June, when it unveiled parts of the Windows 8 UI, Microsoft said the new OS would feature a "touch-first" interface to help it compete in the fast-growing tablet market. Underneath that, however, would be a traditional Windows-style desktop. In demonstrations, Microsoft showed the touch-style start screen for Windows 8, and how users could switch to a more familiar icon-based design.
Wednesday, Sinofsky reiterated the dual nature of Windows 8, calling the design work a "balancing act."
"Having both of [the] user interfaces [work] together harmoniously is an important part of Windows 8," said Sinofsky.
The "Metro"-style UI -- the one inspired by Windows Phone 7's tile-based design -- will be the first to show up when a user boots a device. At that point, users reach a crossroads.
More about:
http://www.computerw..._Microsoft_exec
Conventional desktop UI won't load unless users want it
By Gregg Keizer
September 1, 2011 11:14 AM ET
Computerworld - The Microsoft executive who heads the company's Windows division said Wednesday that the next edition of the operating system will let users treat the traditional desktop as "just another app" that loads only on command.
In a lengthy blog post, Steven Sinofsky, president of Microsoft's Windows and Windows Live division, provided more detail on Windows 8's user interface (UI).
In June, when it unveiled parts of the Windows 8 UI, Microsoft said the new OS would feature a "touch-first" interface to help it compete in the fast-growing tablet market. Underneath that, however, would be a traditional Windows-style desktop. In demonstrations, Microsoft showed the touch-style start screen for Windows 8, and how users could switch to a more familiar icon-based design.
Wednesday, Sinofsky reiterated the dual nature of Windows 8, calling the design work a "balancing act."
"Having both of [the] user interfaces [work] together harmoniously is an important part of Windows 8," said Sinofsky.
The "Metro"-style UI -- the one inspired by Windows Phone 7's tile-based design -- will be the first to show up when a user boots a device. At that point, users reach a crossroads.
More about:
http://www.computerw..._Microsoft_exec
