Microsoft Windows 10's new Start menu
Windows is now in the double digits and with the newly unveiled Windows 10 operating system, Microsoft has reversed the decision to omit its Start menu in Windows 8 and instead has brought back a refreshed and expanded Start menu.
Windows 10 can be called the world’s first ‘responsive’ operating system insofar as Windows will work across all devices – desktops, mobiles, tablets, Xbox consoles, etc – altering its shape and functionality to match each device the user is accessing.
Microsoft even makes the boast that Windows 10 will run across everything from internet of things (IoT) devices to enterprise data centres.
“Windows 10 represents the first step of a whole new generation of Windows, unlocking new experiences to give customers new ways to work, play and connect,” said Terry Myerson, executive vice-president of the Operating Systems group at Microsoft.
“This will be our most comprehensive operating system and the best release Microsoft has ever done for our business customers, and we look forward to working together with our broader Windows community to bring Windows 10 to life in the months ahead.”
A new beginning for Start
With Windows 10, users can create desktops for different purposes and projects, switch between them, and pick up where they left off on each desktop
The newly returned and expanded Start menu will provide users with one-click access to functions and files they used the most. An interesting quirk is the Start menu can be personalised to match the user’s preferences.
A new quadrant layout means users can have up to four apps snapped on the same screen.
As well as this, Windows 10 will enable users to create distinct desktops to suit different purposes and projects.
With the onset of Windows 10, Microsoft is also enhancing security and identity protection to protect users against breaches and theft by phishing by using containers and data separation at the application and file level.
Microsoft also introduced the Windows Insider Programme, kicking off its largest-ever open collaborative development effort to change the way Windows is built and delivered.
Programme participants will receive the technical preview of Windows 10 and a steady stream of builds through the development cycle to use and provide feedback.
