Microsoft announces Windows 8 editions including Windows RT for ARM devices

Microsoft WindowsMicrosoft today officially announced the name of its next Windows operating system version as well as the names for the different editions. Three editions will be available: Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro will available for x86 processors (both 32 and 64 bit). They will be joined by Windows RT which will come pre-installed on PCs and tablets powered by ARM processors.

Windows 8 Pro will build on Windows 8 by adding features such as encryption, virtualization, PC management and domain connectivity. Windows Media Center will also be available as an economical “media pack” add-on to Windows 8 Pro. A third version, Windows 8 Enterprise, will be available to enterprise customers with Software Assurance agreements. It will include all the features of Windows 8 Pro as well as features such as PC management and deployment, advanced security, virtualization, new mobility scenarios, and much more.

Windows RT will come with touch-optimized desktop versions of the new Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. No other x86/64 and desktop software will run on Windows RT. Instead, users will have access to Metro apps built using the new WinRT development environment, “the foundation of a new generation of cloud-enabled, touch-enabled, web-connected apps of all kinds.”

Microsoft promises that more information about Windows 8, including details on pricing, will be made available in the coming months.

Read more: Microsoft