Trends
Windows 8
19:19So you want to buy a new laptop. Sorry to disappoint you but the future includes laptops which become tablets. Windows 8 has created a new operating system which is functional on both laptops and tablets.
(Don't worry. This is not a highly technical blog post. Not many people like reading tech blogs so I decided to inform you on everything you need to know about Windows 8 without all the technical boring terms.)
Tablets which transform into laptops are called convertibles. This new era in computing is an indication that tablets really are the future. If you don't like tablets, it's about time you got familiar with them. Buying a convertible laptop is the best way to get used to tablets.
I see Windows 8 as an operating system which blurs the lines between apps, desktop applications, user programs and the internet. These days multi-tasking has become the norm and we don't even know it. On our cellphones we change from different applications and messaging services within seconds and that needs to be adapted to our laptops because we are starting to interact with other devices the same way we interact with our phones. This means we are used to seamlessly changing from different applications without hesitation or delay (multi-tasking).
The best way to experience Windows 8 is with a convertible. As I mentioned, laptops are a thing of the past. But how do you know which convertible suits you? Below I have listed various convertibles which operate Windows 8. If you too lazy to read, just watch the videos. (Product information from the Windows website)
The convertible also comes with Office Home & Student 2013 RT Preview built in, so you get all the productive power of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote included, and a whole world of new apps available from the Windows Store. The convertible works exclusively with apps from the Windows Store (but not other desktop apps).
ASUS Vivo Tab RT is good to go. Coming in at just over a pound, it can go wherever you do and won't ever weigh you down. With over 8 hours of battery life, you can count on it to be ready when you need it." |
"Do what you want, the way you want. Get your work done with the high performance of a laptop and enjoy the convenience of a fully connected and media-savvy tablet, all in one flexible device.
Combine Windows 8 with innovative design for dual-use convenience on your terms. The touchscreen, customizable apps, and intuitive tools will keep you entertained as well as productive. And with more than 8 hours of battery life, you'll have time for everything. Easily transition from keyboard to touchscreen input—Ultrabook to tablet—using the flexible flip-hinge design." |
"The laptop that doubles as a tablet. The new HP ENVY x2 gives you the power of two PCs in one. Quickly switch from laptop to tablet and back again. The tablet magnetically slides off and on, latching securely into place. This versatile machine works with touch or a keyboard—adapting to your needs with ease. With its impressive 14 hours of battery life, the HP ENVY X2 is built for mobility. Perfect for multitasking, movie watching, social media sharing, and much more. Beats Audio and dual speakers provide great-sounding, rich audio on your PC. The ultra-wide viewing angles and bright, vivid color on the 11.6-inch diagonal HD display mean you can enjoy crystal-clear movies, pictures, music, and games—no matter how you hold it." |
"As flexible as you are. The IdeaPad Yoga is an ultraslim PC with a touchscreen that you can configure in multiple positions and even fold back 360°. This Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 is powered by Windows RT.
The 11.6-inch HD+ display has 10 multitouch points, so you can enjoy gaming and social media wherever you go. Enjoy an optimal Windows 8 experience. Interact with all the latest software, features, and apps that Windows has to offer. The IdeaPad Yoga 11 has 10+ hours of battery life so it can power your activities throughout the day." |
"Have fun with it as a tablet. Get down to business with it as a laptop. Whatever you need, the Samsung ATIV Smart PC puts it all at your fingertips. The Samsung ATIV Smart PC is a versatile, quick-change tablet. Just set it on the magnetic base and you have all the capabilities of a laptop right in front of you. Have you ever wanted to watch multiple movies in one sitting? If so, you've come to the right PC. With the Samsung ATIV Smart PC, you can watch 8 straight hours of video on a single charge. Get creative with the S-pen to make notes, draw, and edit pictures, all on your tablet. With preloaded Samsung apps like All Share Play, Music Hub, and S-Note, you can access all of your media from any of your Samsung devices." |
"From touch to type, office to living room, from your screen to the big screen, you can see more, share more, and do more with Surface. A feat of engineering and a work of art. One touch and you'll recognise the thoughtful design and precision craftsmanship that make Surface a joy to behold. The unique VaporMg casing delivers a high-quality fit and finish that's ultra-light and durable. The integrated Kickstand enables hands-free entertainment. Kick back and enjoy HD video, take beautiful photos, or click in and do more with Touch Cover; Surface's Kickstand gives you the foundation to do what you want. To use Surface as a tablet, just flip the Kickstand closed and it disappears into the casing. A cover you can type on. Touch Cover clicks in to Surface and offers a slim, spill-resistant keyboard for typing. Available in vibrant colours, you're sure to find a cover to match your personal style. Or choose Type Cover, which combines the speed and comfort of a classic keyboard with a super-thin, lightweight design that's ideal for extended usage at home or at the office. Surface with Windows RT is incredibly thin, but still features a full-size USB port, microSD card slot, and HD video out port. Easily transfer files or use compatible accessories. Charge up, plug in, and show off." |
Now that you have chosen your convertible it's time to take a look at some of the apps available for Windows 8.
Remember Microsoft Paint, well there is something even better on Windows 8. Fresh Paint is the application that let's you create artwork that resemble paintings.
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| Fresh Paint |
Instead of having to take photos of things you would like to paint while walking in the park, you can just take out your convertible or tablet and start painting.
You don't even need an extra hardrive because Windows 8 comes with access to SkyDrive: "When you install the free SkyDrive desktop app on all your computers—including Windows 8,Windows 7, and Windows Vista—you can automatically sync your files across them. You’ll be able to access your photos and files from almost anywhere, store them, and easily share them."
Don't worry Mac users, you can also download a preview of SkyDrive.
Don't have Microsoft Office or you don't want to buy it? No problem, you can edit your documents on the internet with web apps.
And for the gamers, your convertible can be your second screen while playing xBox.
These are just some of the many apps that will be available to you once you get yourself Windows 8.
To explore more apps visit the website.
In terms of advertising and marketing I think Microsoft has done a brilliant job. Unfortunately not many people in South Africa know about Windows 8 so they could have marketed it better in South Africa. Especially because South Africans like to be part of the cool crowd.
Windows 8 is definitely going to change the way we use technology and it is enabling consumers to flirt with ubiquitous computing. Now bloggers can blog on the go. In fact anyone can do whatever they want on the go. No need to wait to get to the office or home.
It might take a while for the convertibles to be popular in South Africa as they could set you back about R9 000 depending on which one you choose.
If you plan on getting Windows 8 I recommend you buy a new convertible now. You don't have to buy them as soon as they arrive, they going to be around for years to come.
Microsoft has given themselves a make over and have proven once again why they are such a great company. Other operating systems need to come up with something even better to beat Microsoft in the future. Maybe an app that makes food for you?
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