Some of us had a taste of where Windows 8 was headed with the Developer Preview back in September 2011, but for many of us, the chance to experience Microsoft's next flagship operating system arrived this week in the form of an eagerly-anticipated Consumer Preview. And experience it we did, as the free-to-try software racked up over one million downloads in just 24 hours.
Microsoft refers to its next major release as "a new Windows for new devices," and the company is taking a bold approach in reimagining Windows for today's computing devices. Instead of building various operating systems for various form factors, the software giant is hoping to deliver a single package that scales across a wide range of products. Whether you're using a compact tablet, a traditional desktop or a giant touchscreen display, Microsoft wants Windows 8 to be your platform of choice.
But is it going to work? Can an operating system that delivers a beautiful touch experience still function equally well with a keyboard and mouse? And, can Windows 8 really be fun on a tablet while continuing to offer professional-class productivity on the desktop?
The HEXUS team has mixed opinions, but it's that time of the week where we put the question to you, the readers. The forums are the place to be heard, so let the world know; what do you make of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview?
